Periodontal Scaling
TPeriodontal scaling is a non-surgical deep dental under the gum line, typically performed by your dental hygienist. Dr. Berry may recommend periodontal scaling if you have advanced gum disease (periodontitis). Almost half of adults 30 and older have some level of periodontitis, and periodontal scaling can reduce its negative effects on oral health. Read on to learn more about periodontal scaling in Forrest City, AR.
Why Might I Need Periodontal Scaling?
Fortunately, you can avoid severe gum disease with good daily dental hygiene (brushing and flossing) and by keeping your regular dental checkup and cleaning appointments twice a year. However, even with good dental hygiene, plaque can form in hard-to-reach pockets between the teeth and under the gums. This plaque buildup will eventually harden into tartar you can’t brush and floss away. These stubborn pockets of tartar need to be removed during periodontal scaling treatments.
Periodontal Disease Progression
Left alone, these areas of tartar under the gums accumulate additional bacteria that can inflame your gums. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis: swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Without treatment, gingivitis can worsen into severe infection and receding gums that weaken the teeth. Severe periodontal disease can damage the jaw bone if left untreated. Dr. Berry will examine your teeth and take X-rays to determine the best course of action for your dental health. He may recommend one or more periodontal scaling appointments to remove tartar completely so your gums can heal.
What to Expect During a Periodontal Scaling in Forrest City, AR
- Dr. Berry will assess your dental health and decide if you need periodontal scaling, and give you additional recommendations to prepare, based on your health condition.
- We will book one or more separate appointments for this procedure.
- Depending on the extent of your periodontal disease, we may administer local anesthesia to numb the area to be cleaned.
- Your dental hygienist will use an ultrasonic scaler to thoroughly remove tartar from your teeth and from underneath the gums.
- We periodically use a water jet to remove tartar debris
- Your dental hygienist will use a curette dental tool to scrape any remaining tartar left behind from the ultrasonic scaler to ensure all tartar is gone.
You may have some gum tenderness after the appointment. We will give you instructions on eating soft foods, salt-water rinsing, and gentle brushing for a time after your treatment.
Schedule a Deep Dental Cleaning Today
Keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong! Schedule an appointment with your Forrest City, AR dentist Dr. Berry today.
