Treatment For Periodontitis And Gum Disease

Why Would You Need Scaling And Root Planing?

Periodontitis (chronic gum disease) is caused by a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Plaque is always forming on your teeth, but if your teeth aren’t cleaned well, the bacteria in plaque can harden into tartar and cause the gum tissue to become inflamed. If left untreated, the gums will begin to pull away from the teeth, leaving deepening pockets where the bacteria can breed.

At that point, not only is it extremely difficult (if not impossible) to remove plaque and tartar with regular brushing and flossing, there’s also a risk of bone and tooth loss. Dr. Heezen recommends scaling and root planing for patients diagnosed with periodontitis.

What Is Scaling And Root Planing Treatment?

Scaling and root planing is a two-part procedure to treat periodontitis. The scaling portion is when Dr. Heezen removes all of the plaque and tartar above and below the gumline, cleaning all the way down to the bottom of the pocket.

Dr. Heezen then begins the second phase of treatment, which is root planing. Root planing smooths out the roots of your teeth to help your gums re-attach to them, while keeping bacteria, plaque, and tartar from re-adhering underneath the gumline. The process may take more than one appointment to make sure that your teeth are clean and healthy.

Aftercare Tips

When you see Dr. Heezen for followup treatments, he will want to check on the healing of your teeth and gums. In most cases, patients who had red or swollen gums find that the tenderness and bleeding from periodontitis is reduced or completely eliminated. If your gums respond well and remain stable, you won’t need any further treatment. 

What Can Prairie Lakes Family Dentistry Do for You?

The CDC released a report stating that nearly half of American adults have some form of gum disease. And 70 percent of Americans over the age of 65 have gum disease. At Prairie Lakes Family Dentistry, we’re dedicated to controlling and eradicating gum disease in our patients.

Let’s visit about how we can help you take care of gum disease. Call us for a consultation at (507) 212-0002 or send us an email.