Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that should not be left untreated. If a dentist is not seen to treat the gums, the individual may begin to lose teeth. Although periodontal disease is serious, there are several types of valuable treatments available.

Surgery is a common form of action, but depending on the severity of the condition, a non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planing may be appropriate.

Process overview

Root exfoliation and planing is actually a thorough teeth cleaning procedure that is ideal in the early stages of periodontitis. During this time, the individual's teeth may sag or develop abnormal spaces between the teeth. As these pockets enlarge, the teeth will separate from the gums and eventually fall out.

Excess bacteria on teeth can also be accidentally swallowed and make a person sick. This situation is very serious for people with heart-related conditions because bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the chambers of the heart.

Dental Scaling and root planing are generally administered as a single treatment under local anesthesia unless there is significant tooth damage. During the "scaling" portion of the procedure, the dentist uses mechanical aids to remove excess bacteria from the teeth. The bacteria can be in the form of plaque, tartar or cavities.

The "brushing" part of the procedure involves cleaning below the gum level. Because bacteria may not be visible, the dentist looks for rough surfaces and uses a handpiece to remove dirt or bacteria. There are two common types of hand instruments: an ultrasonic instrument or a scraper. Dental patients tend to prefer the ultrasound instrument because it causes less discomfort.

Suitable candidates

To determine whether a person's periodontal disease is appropriate for scaling and root planing, dentists use a guide from the American Dental Association (ADA). According to the ADA, gum disease that extends 3-6 millimeters below the gum line is suitable for scraping and root planing. Gum disease deeper than this amount will likely require surgery.

After the procedure

Because with scaling and root planing the dentist works on sensitive areas of the teeth and gums, people may experience some soreness, soreness and light bleeding after the procedure. The individual may also notice a temporary sensitivity to hot or cold drinks.

In most cases, over-the-counter medications are sufficient to relieve symptoms. The dentist should be contacted if it persists for an extended period of time.