Gum Disease Treatment – Wylie, TX
Protect Your Gums to Preserve Your Smile!
The gums are responsible for many different functions, and it’s not just keeping your teeth properly anchored. While this function is incredibly important, the gums are also meant to protect the roots of teeth, which are far more susceptible to infection and breakdown from bacteria than tooth enamel. If you suffer from gum disease, regardless of the severity, it is vital that you contact our dental office for an exam and possible treatment.
Why Choose Wylie Family Dentistry for Periodontal Therapy?
- Gentle and Caring Dentist and Team
- Sedation Available for Easier Treatment
- Flexible Scheduling and Payment Plans
Scaling & Root Planing
Once gum disease has passed the gingivitis stage, improved oral care is not going to be enough to address your gum problems. This is because plaque and decay have reached beneath the gum tissue and began attacking the roots of teeth, not just the visible gum portion covering them. Scaling works to remove plaque from this region, while root planing smooths out the tooth roots, making it easier for them to reattach to the receding gums. Treatment must be done once every three to four months to ensure that the gums are healing.
Do You Need Scaling & Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is sometimes referred to as a “deep cleaning,” which is essentially what it is. When your dental team picks up on signs of gum disease, including bleeding, swelling, and inflammation, we will try to address it right away to keep it from progressing and resulting in lasting harm to your smile. The goal of scaling and root planing is to remove bacteria that have accumulated around or beneath your gumline. We will also smooth down the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach and heal more efficiently.
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root placing is comprised of two parts. They usually happen over two separate appointments. The “scaling” portion is when your dental team scrapes away plaque and tartar that accumulate along the gumline using dental instruments. They will also target the areas beneath the gumline where bacteria build up.
After the scaling portion is complete, your dental team will move on to the “root planing.” This is when they smooth down sections of the teeth beneath the gumline to help them adhere to your teeth. This helps to speed up the healing process, making it more difficult for the bacteria to build up again. Ultimately, this process reduces your risk of developing gum disease again.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
It’s normal for your gums to feel sore following scaling and root planing. Your gums may also be a little bit inflamed. This is temporarily following your treatment and should resolve itself in a few weeks. Here are a few tips to help your gums heal quickly:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water after meals to prevent irritation.
- Floss thoroughly every day.
- Stick to a soft diet for the first 48 hours following your treatment.
- Avoid foods and beverages that are spicy, acidic, or hot.
- Refrain from intense physical activity after your treatment.