Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is a silent disease that many people do not realize they have until it is too late. So, what can patients do about it once they learn that they have it? Luckily, there are periodontic solutions, such as root planing (deep cleaning), that can treat the disease and help patients manage their condition.
At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud and her skilled team have years of experience helping patients improve their oral health. One way that she and her Lombard, IL, team improve patients’ oral health is with thorough scaling and root planing treatments. So, don’t wait–schedule your periodontal appointment online here or by calling (630) 629-5700.
In the meantime, let our knowledgeable team tell you what periodontal disease is and how root planing (deep cleaning) can help.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition resulting from a sticky build up of bacteria and tartar (collectively known as plaque) on the teeth. Without proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, the plaque continues to accumulate, which leads to bacterial infections in the gums.
If left untreated, the infection will spread to surrounding gum tissue and extend toward the jawbone. The infection weakens these tissues (which help keep our teeth securely in place). As a result, patients with advanced gum disease often sustain significant tooth loss and jawbone recession. Both of these effects can lead to suboptimal oral and overall health.
How can scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) help?
The plaque that leads to periodontal disease can extend below the gum line, which impacts the bottom of teeth (known as the root). Although tooth roots are below the gum line, they are still susceptible to cavities and infections.
Therefore, patients with extensive plaque build up below the gum line must have a deeper clean than ordinary dental cleanings can manage. Fortunately, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) treatments can remove stubborn plaque from above and below the gum line.
What can I expect from scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)?
Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) can take a long time to complete and can be fairly uncomfortable. So, Dr. Glud and her team often recommend multiple appointments and local anesthesia for more difficult cleanings. Regardless, our team will help you get clean teeth for a healthier mouth and gums.
First, Dr. Glud will remove plaque accumulation above and below the gum line by scaling the teeth using a special ultrasonic instrument. Once all of the plaque is removed, Dr. Glud will then smooth the surface of the tooth root (known as root planing) below the gum line.
Smoothing the tooth root makes it more difficult for plaque to stick to the teeth, which reduces bacterial infections in the gum tissue. As a result, patients get much-needed relief from gum disease and a cleaner, healthier smile.
Schedule a Scaling and Root Planing Appointment Now
Nearly half of all adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease. These people are at an increased risk of dangerous oral and systemic health conditions. So, don’t wait–schedule a scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) appointment at Dental Care of Lombard now.
Patients can call our Lombard dental office at (630) 629-5700 or they may send our team a message online to get started.
