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Nonsurgical Treatment for Periodontitis
Periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease, requires prompt treatment to stop the spread of infection and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. At Anderson Dental Group in Payson, AZ, we offer root scaling and planing, a nonsurgical deep cleaning procedure that removes hardened plaque and tartar from the teeth and cleans out pockets of infection along the gumline.
Periodontitis typically begins as gingivitis, a milder form of gum disease that causes gums to swell, redden, and bleed. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, where teeth may begin to loosen and the areas where teeth meet the gums become increasingly infected. Root scaling and planing remains one of the most effective, minimally invasive treatments available for stopping periodontitis before it causes lasting damage.
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What Are Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing are actually two related steps performed during the same deep cleaning procedure. Scaling involves removing tartar and plaque from above and below the gumline, targeting the buildup that a routine cleaning cannot reach. Root planing, often simply called planing, follows scaling and involves smoothing the damaged surface of the tooth root, making it easier for the gums to reattach securely to the tooth.
Together, these two steps address both the visible buildup causing infection and the underlying tooth surface that needs to heal, giving your gums the best possible chance to recover.
Benefits of Root Scaling and Planing
Choosing root scaling and planing to treat periodontitis offers several important advantages:
- A nonsurgical way to treat infection below the gumline
- Removal of plaque and tartar that brushing and routine cleanings cannot reach
- Smoother tooth root surfaces that allow gums to reattach more effectively
- Reduced gum swelling, bleeding, and bad breath as infection clears
- A chance to stop periodontitis before it leads to tooth loss or the need for surgical treatment
Your Root Scaling and Planing Visit, Step by Step
Here is what to expect when you come in for root scaling and planing treatment:
Numbing the Area
If your gums are sore or sensitive, we can apply a local anesthetic to numb the area before beginning treatment, helping keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
1
Scaling Above and Below the Gumline
Using ultrasonic tools, we remove plaque and tartar from the visible surface of the teeth and from beneath the gumline.
2
Root Planing
We smooth the surface of the affected tooth roots, removing rough spots where bacteria tend to collect and making it easier for gum tissue to reattach.
3
Follow-Up Care and Possible Medication
Depending on the severity of your periodontitis, an antibiotic or antimicrobial rinse may be recommended to help reduce the risk of the infection returning.
4
Healing and Reevaluation
Your gums are given time to heal and reattach to the treated tooth surfaces, followed by an evaluation visit to confirm the infection has been controlled.
5
Preventing Periodontitis Going Forward
The best way to prevent periodontitis from developing or returning is through regular dental checkups and consistent oral hygiene at home. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and keeping up with routine cleanings allow our team to catch plaque buildup and early gum disease before it progresses to a stage that requires deep cleaning treatment.
After root scaling and planing, some patients may benefit from more frequent periodontal maintenance visits to help control bacteria and monitor gum health. Paying attention to changes such as bleeding, swelling, gum recession, or persistent bad breath can also help you recognize potential problems early and seek care before the condition becomes more advanced.
Stop Periodontitis Before It Progresses
Periodontitis will not improve without treatment, and delaying care often means more extensive procedures down the road. Schedule a periodontal evaluation with Anderson Dental Group and take the first step toward healthier gums.
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