Overview
If you've developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate enough. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is typically corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a simple procedure that is performed to help eliminate periodontal disease by removing built-up tartar and plaque from the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment at East Haddam Dental Associates cleans under the gumline then smoothes the surface of your teeth to avoid further buildup. If you're worried about your gums, find out more about SRP at East Haddam Dental Associates in Moodus, CT. Our skilled team of dentists looks forward to meeting you.
Reviews
Best Candidates
At your dental examination, we will assess how deep your gum pockets are. In the event your gum pockets, also called sulcus, are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing therapy could be recommended. SRP can help to decrease the size of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the very first phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). A number of these early signs of periodontal disease are loose teeth, in addition to gums that are tender, swollen, bleed easily, look red, or have begun to recede. When periodontal disease is diagnosed at the onset, one or more scaling and root planing therapies can improve signs, but when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you might need more comprehensive therapies.
What To Expect
SRP is a deep cleaning that may be carried out in our office using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being addressed. We might also suggest sedation methods if you are feeling stressed about using this process. Our dental team will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. We will subsequently plane or smooth the outside of the enamel to decrease the amount of regions where tartar and plaque may get caught to avoid future problems.
Recovery
Following your SRP therapy, you might have greater tooth and gum sensitivity, in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. One of our dentists can write a prescription for antibiotics that will help remove any residual bacteria from the gums. You should adhere to a good oral hygiene regimen in your home, such as daily flossing and brushing, to keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. You also ought to schedule yearly dental examinations so we can evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, as well as bi-annual visits to get your teeth cleaned. Based upon the initial state of your mouth and your own home care following an SRP therapy, you might need several more scaling and root planing procedures to totally restore your gums.
Insurance Coverage
SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease that's generally paid for in part by dental insurance. Our team will get in touch with your provider to find out your policy and individual expenses. If you don't have dental insurance, then East Haddam Dental Associates takes numerous payments, including low-interest financing, which may be explained in your appointment.
Scaling and Root Planing
Periodontal disease may become dangerous and painful for your health, so if you're having symptoms, then please schedule an appointment with our dental practice in Moodus, CT. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is normally corrected using a very simple SRP process at East Haddam Dental Associates. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more details.