Routine dental exams and cleanings are your frontline defense against cavities and gum disease. But, if you haven’t had a dental cleaning in a while, then you may need a deeper cleanse than ordinary cleanings can provide. Luckily, periodontal treatments (like root planing and scaling) can help you get the deep clean your teeth deserve.
If you’re looking for top-tier dentistry in Denver, CO, then look no further than Metropolitan Dental Care. Our team of skilled dental professionals has years of training and experience that set us apart from the rest. So, don’t wait–meet our team today by calling (303) 534-2626 or by sending us a message here.
If you’re curious about periodontal care, then keep reading. In this post, our Denver dentists answer some of your questions about root planing and scaling.
What is meant by scaling?
Scaling refers to the process of removing accumulated plaque (residual food debris and bacteria) from the teeth and around the gum line. Periodontal scaling differs from traditional dental cleanings, as scaling removes plaque below the gum line. Traditional dental cleanings only remove plaque above the gum line.
What is meant by root planing?
Root planing takes place after our Denver dentists remove built-up plaque below the gum line. The purpose of root planing is to smooth the surface of a tooth’s root.
By smoothing a tooth’s root, bacteria and food debris do not have a good surface to stick to. As a result, patients experience less plaque accumulation in the future, which helps keep gum disease and cavities at bay.
Is root planing and scaling necessary?
Root planing and scaling may be necessary if a patient:
- Has significant plaque accumulation above and below the gum line
- Has gum disease
- Has receding gums that expose the roots of teeth
Ultimately, an in-depth exam with our skilled dentists will tell you if root planing and scaling are right for you.
Does root planing and scaling hurt?
During treatment, our team ensures patients’ comfort by using medical-grade numbing agents, local anesthesia, and other comfort solutions. Subsequently, teeth scaling and root planing is a virtually pain-free procedure.
However, patients may feel some mild discomfort following their treatments. We recommend combatting postprocedural pain and complications by:
- Taking anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin)
- Applying ice packs to the mouth and face
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash (or a warm, saltwater solution)
- Avoiding overly hot, spicy, and acidic foods for approximately one week
- Choosing softer foods, like soup and smoothies
- Continuing gentle hygiene, like once-daily flossing and twice-daily brushing
How long does it take to recover from root planing and scaling?
Recovery is largely dependent upon the scope of treatment. However, most patients may notice an improvement in discomfort within days and a full recovery within weeks.
Follow-up appointments with our team ensure proper healing and a speedy recovery. But, if you are noticing signs of complications (like continued bleeding, pain, and fever), then contact our team immediately.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Dentists in Denver
If it has been longer than a year since your last dental cleaning, then you may be eligible for root planing and teeth scaling. Contact Metropolitan Dental Care now to verify your candidacy.
New and existing patients can schedule appointments here, or they may call our Denver dental office directly at (303) 534-2626.
