Eliminate Gum Disease with Scaling and Root Planing
Left untreated, gum disease can take a serious toll on your oral and overall health. To address early stages of gum disease, Dr. Edward Narcisi performs scaling and root planing at the Center for Dental Excellence in Monroeville, PA. This effective and time-tested treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria, restore the health of your gums, and prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease.
Understanding Gum Disease
Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and tender gums that are prone to bleeding. This condition is caused by the accumulation of plaque along the gum line. Plaque deposits harbor bacteria and the longer they stay on the teeth, the more damage they can cause to the gums. Left untreated, gingivitis turns into periodontitis as bacteria move below the gum line. This can have a significant negative impact on both the gum tissue and the bone that surround the teeth. In some cases, patients may need to seek restorative options for lost teeth, such as dental implants.
Over the years, the connection between oral health and overall health has become undeniable.
Signs of gum disease are not always apparent. Pain or discomfort is typically not associated with the condition until later stages, so many people do not even realize there is a problem. For this reason, it is important to attend routine dental cleanings and examinations so any symptoms of gum disease are diagnosed and treated early.
The Importance of Periodontal Health
Over the years, the connection between oral health and overall health has become undeniable. Recent research has indicated that periodontal disease increases the risk for a number of serious conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, and low birth weight babies, among many others. Consequently, visiting the dentist regularly and maintaining your oral health can have a significant impact on your health as a whole.
We use gentle tools and techniques to so that you remain comfortable throughout your treatment.
At Your Appointment
Scaling and root planing is effective for treating gum disease in its early stages. This procedure can prevent gingivitis or mild periodontitis from progressing into advanced periodontitis.
Scaling and root planing is somewhat similar to a regular dental cleaning. However, our clinician will typically administer local anesthesia so that they can clean deeper below the gum line without causing patients discomfort. Using a combination of hand scalers and ultrasonic instruments, the teeth are cleaned thoroughly and the root surfaces smoothed to deter additional plaque and bacteria from reattaching.
Healing and Recovery
Because scaling and root planing is non-invasive, patients can resume normal activity immediately following treatment. Typically, there is little to no pain involved, although slight temperature sensitivity is common. Patients can typically address any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen.
A few weeks after your procedure, Dr. Narcisi will see you for a follow-up appointment to assess your progress. If further treatment is necessary, he will review those options with you. If you exhibit marked improvement, he can create a periodontal maintenance schedule to ensure that the condition does not return.
Periodontal Maintenance
One of the most important aspects of periodontal therapy is maintaining your progress. Every few months, the bacteria in the oral cavity begin to repopulate. Patients who are prone to gum disease typically require more frequent cleanings than those without periodontal issues. By attending your routine dental cleanings after scaling and root planing, you are investing in the future of your oral health.
Ensure a Healthier Smile Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease, such as irritated, swollen, or tender gums, scaling and root planing may help address the issue before it becomes worse. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Narcisi, contact us online or call our office at (412) 373-9447.
