Good oral hygiene practices are vital to avoid gum diseases in the long run, yet sometimes, daily brushing and flossing may no longer suffice. Plaque buildup is normal during everyday activities. But when it accumulates beneath your gumline, it becomes problematic. Scaling and root planing is a treatment provided by dental practices for treating this concern. However, some patients find themselves questioning if a general dentist can perform scaling and root planing.
In most cases, the answer is yes. General dentists have been trained in performing scaling and root planing procedures. So, Let’s get into the details of scaling and root planing and try to understand how it can be efficient in protecting your oral health.
What Exactly Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Also known as SRP, scaling and root planing is a dental procedure that helps with deep cleaning of your gumline. While regular cleaning aims to clean the surface buildup of plaque or tartar over your teeth, SRP reaches beyond it. The accumulation of plaque beneath the gumline is the main cause of gum diseases. Under scaling and root planing, your dentist will go through two steps deep cleaning procedure.
- Step One: The first step involves scaling, where your dentist removes plaque from the surface of your teeth and below the gumline. The process is performed comprehensively until there are no remaining signs of plaque.
- Step Two: After deep cleaning of plaque, the dentist will use a special tool to smoothen the roots of your teeth. This step helps ensure there will be no possibility of bacteria infecting gums, and they will remain attached properly to your teeth.
SRP is a long-term care solution that can help prevent gum diseases and tooth infections from ever emerging. If you see any excessive plaque or tartar buildup below your gumline, consult with your dentist for SRP during routine checkups.
Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?
SRP procedure becomes an essential part of your treatment when you are suffering from an advanced case of gum disease. The excessive plaque buildup can cause your gums to get infected, and there is also inflammation that makes it unbearable even to maintain daily oral care. If not treated properly, you may also get affected by further concerns such as:
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
Signs That You Are in Need of Scaling and Rooth Planing
Recognizing the signs early and getting proper treatment can prevent gum diseases from progressing further. If you notice any of the following signs, do not wait and consult with your dentist immediately.
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Loose teeth
For any of these signs, SRP is the only solution that can save you from further distress. By removing all the bacteria surfacing in your teeth and gumline, you will not only avoid oral infections but also more serious health problems such as the risks of heart disease or diabetes.
Should I Visit A General Dentist to Perform Scaling and Root Planing?
All general dentists go through the necessary training to perform an efficient scaling and root planing procedure. So there should be no concerns about consulting with a general dentist in case you need SRP treatment. However, general dentists are an effective option only when you are dealing with mild to moderate cases of gum disease.
If your gum disease has advanced to further stages and there is also significant bone loss in place, your general dentist will refer you to a periodontist. A periodontist is more equipped with the skills and knowledge that are necessary to treat advanced gum diseases.
Does Root Planing and Scaling Hurt?
Most treatments performed by dentists are known to hurt somewhat. This is also a concern of many when it comes to root planning or scaling. While there will be a possibility of mild pain or discomfort, the amount will depend on your condition. Here is what you can expect for the pain during the SRP procedure:
- Before the Treatment: You will be given local anesthesia to numb the area where SRP will be performed. It means there will be only mild discomfort throughout the procedure.
- During the Treatment: With anesthesia in effect, you will only feel a little pressure or scraping. But you can stay relaxed as there will be no excessive pain.
- After Treatment Effects: Like any other procedure, there will be a feeling of tenderness and sensitivity with mild pain. You may receive anti-inflammatory pain-relieving medicines for these concerns.
How to Care After Treatment?
SRP will help you achieve effective results, and you will be guided by your dentist for post-treatment care to sustain them. Here are some of the key guidelines that will be vital after the scaling and root planning procedure:
- Clean Your Teeth With A Gentle Brush: Make sure you clean your teeth daily using a brush with soft bristles.
- Floss Your Teeth Daily: While you will need to floss daily to avoid any plaque buildup, being gentle will be necessary to avoid irritating gums after treatment.
- Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: Best advised to avoid bacteria after treatment. An antibacterial mouthwash can also help with healing procedures and manage sensitivity.
- Avoid Hard-to-Chew Foods: After treatment, your teeth and gums will be sensitive, and hard, chewy foods can cause discomfort. So, stick with a soft diet for a few days to avoid any compilation.
- Do Not Miss Follow-Up Appointments: The treatment takes time to show results, and your dentist needs to monitor the progress. Therefore, make sure to follow through with the required amount of follow-up appointments.
Are You Ready To See A Specialist?
Most cases of gum diseases are manageable with proper oral care. However, sometimes, visiting a general dentist can become necessary when the symptoms have progressed so far. If you see any of the symptoms mentioned in this guide or even have a common feeling that you might need scaling and root planing for your gum and teeth health, we recommend consulting with your dentist in Cooper City right away.
Gentle Teeth & Braces offers full-service dentistry, orthodontics, and pediatrics services to offer complete care for your overall oral health issues. If you need expert guidance on SRP treatment to avoid gum diseases and avoid further complications in the long run, we recommend you book your first appointment immediately.
