Dental scaling is also known as periodontal scaling or root planing or deep cleaning. Dental scaling is a deep cleaning that goes beyond a normal cleaning treatment. If your dentist recommends a dental scaling in Hamden, and you would like to find out more read on…
Gum disease is caused by a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Plaque is a constant buildup on your teeth. If teeth are not cleaned well the bacteria in plaque can cause your gums to become inflamed and can lead to tooth decay. A dental scaling treatment is done to remove tartar and plaque that has buildup in between your gums and teeth, reducing gum inflammation and improving gum health.
Do you need dental scaling?
Everyone experiences some form of plaque buildup. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings will help remove the plaque and prevent more serious problems. Dental scaling is a common procedure done on patients with gum disease. It is also known as deep cleaning because this type of procedure reaches deep within the gumline to remove plaque buildup.
If you have healthy gums, the tissue will fit tightly around the tooth and keep plaque out. A healthy gum fits a tooth at just 1 to 3 millimeters below the gumline. When a gum disease develops, it can cause a deep pocket and once your teeth have pockets of 4 millimeters or more, your dentist will probably recommend dental scaling to remove the plaque beneath the gumline and help treat the gum disease.
If gum disease is caught early and hasn’t damaged the structures below the gum line, a professional cleaning should be done. If the pockets between your gums and teeth are too deep, however, scaling and root planing may be needed. Here are signs you will need dental scaling:
- bone and tissue loss
- tooth loss
- loose teeth
- moving teeth
What to expect during a dental scaling?
A deep cleaning can be a little uncomfortable, especially when there is gum disease present already. A local anesthetic will be applied by your dentist to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Dental scaling can take several visits, each one addressing a different portion of the mouth. You may ask your dentist if you can schedule your scaling for a single visit if you have only moderate gum disease and are willing to sit for a lengthy procedure.
After the procedure is done, your gums and teeth will feel sensitive and a little sore for a day or three. In some cases, there can be some bleeding and swelling. You can use a desensitizing toothpaste to reduce these discomforts.
Here are some aftercare tips:
- You will usually be given mouthwash, do use them regularly as recommended by your dentist.
- It’s crucial that you use proper brushing and flossing procedures after your scaling to stop plaque from forming again in the same areas.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush and clean between your teeth daily.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Avoid using tobacco and see your dentist regularly.
- Avoid acidic foods right after the procedure that can cause more sensitivity such as lemon.
If you are in Hamden and you are looking to do a dental scaling. At Parkway Dental we have trained and highly experienced professionals that can provide you with the proper dental care you and your loved ones need. Give us a call at (203) 408-2248 to book an appointment.