Get Your Oral Health on Track Today!

If you want to get your oral health on track and prevent gum disease, scaling and root planing might be the right dental procedure for you. Scaling and root planing involves removing the bacteria called plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, as well as smoothing any rough spots on the roots of the teeth to prevent future buildup.

At our De Pere, WI, dental office, we use state-of-the-art equipment and a gentle touch to make sure our patients receive the best care possible. Don’t let gum disease ruin your smile — schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about scaling and root planing.

Our De Pere dentist is here to guide you through the process and ensure your comfort every step of the way. Call (920) 336-4201 to schedule a consultation.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, also known as periodontal scaling, is a non-surgical procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line, where regular brushing and flossing can’t reach to treat gum disease. The procedure also smooths the root surfaces of the teeth, making it harder for bacteria to attach to the gums and teeth.

Scaling and root planing involves two main steps. The first step is tooth scaling, which involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and below the gum line. This is done using special dental tools that are designed to gently remove the buildup of bacteria and other harmful substances.

The second step is root planing, which involves smoothing out the surfaces of the roots of your teeth. This helps prevent further buildup of bacteria and other harmful substances and can help promote the healing of your gums.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Some of the benefits of scaling and root planing in De Pere include:

• Help with bleeding gums and bad breath: Bleeding gums and bad breath can be signs of periodontal disease, a common condition that affects many people. Fortunately, scaling and root planing can help with this.
• Prevent tooth loss: When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth and making them more susceptible to decay and infection. By removing the bacteria that cause periodontal disease, scaling and root planing can help keep your teeth healthy and strong.
• Improve your overall health: Studies have shown that people with periodontal disease are more likely to have other health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. By treating periodontal disease, you may be able to reduce your risk of these and other health issues.
• Brighter, cleaner smile: Dental scaling removes plaque and tartar that, over time, causes teeth to appear yellow or dull. This gives your teeth a brighter and smoother appearance.

If you want to enjoy the benefits of scaling and root planing, schedule a consultation with Dr. Yenschensky today by calling (920) 336-4201 to see if this is the right dental procedure for you.

Who Should Get Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is generally recommended for patients who have gum disease or are at risk of developing it. Signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, as well as bad breath and receding gums. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that goes beyond gingivitis, affecting many adults over the age of 30 in the United States.

Overall, if you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been told by your dentist that you have some buildup of plaque and tartar, dental scaling and root planing may be a good option for you.

You can contact our De Pere, WI, dental office to get a proper evaluation and determine the best course of treatment for your needs.

The Scaling and Root Planing Process

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical gum disease treatment designed to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smooth out rough spots on the tooth roots.

Before the procedure begins, our dentist will numb the area with an anesthetic. This will help minimize any discomfort during the procedure. Then, our hygienists use a special instrument called a scaler to carefully remove any plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and the pockets between your teeth and gums. 

After the plaque and tartar have been removed, Dr. Yenhchesky will use another instrument called a curette to smooth out any rough spots on the surface of your tooth roots. This will help prevent bacteria from accumulating in these areas in the future. To remove any debris or bacteria that may have been dislodged during the procedure, he’ll then flush the area with an antimicrobial rinse.

The entire scaling and root planing process can be done in one visit and typically takes between one and two hours, depending on the severity of your gum disease and the number of teeth that need to be treated. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure, but this should subside within a few days.

Scaling and Root Planing Aftercare

Caring for your oral health following a scaling and root planing procedure is essential to prevent gum disease from recurring. Dr. Yenchesky may suggest the following steps:

• Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice daily and flossing once a day.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
• Steer clear of hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for a few days to allow your gums to heal.
• Schedule regular dental checkups to keep track of your oral health progress.

Potential Risks of Scaling and Root Planing

While generally safe, this procedure carries some risks. Patients should be mindful of the following:

• Sensitivity: It’s common to experience heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and certain foods, such as sweets or acidic items. This typically improves within a week.
• Gum Recession: In some instances, the gums may pull back slightly from the teeth, exposing the roots. This can create a sensation of increased sensitivity.
• Infection: Though the procedure aims to remove harmful bacteria, there is a slight chance of bacteria entering the bloodstream, which could lead to infections elsewhere in the body.
• Discomfort: Mild pain or soreness can occur during and after the treatment. Over-the-counter pain relief medications are often sufficient to ease any discomfort.

With proper aftercare and regular visits to your dentist, scaling and root planing can significantly improve your gum health while minimizing the chance of complications.

Frequently Asked Questions