CALL US: (229) 247-3400Half of all American adults have some degree of gum disease. It is a serious dental condition that can affect your overall health as well as your smile. When left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a method of treating mild to moderate gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline. At the office of Dr. Brett Hester in Valdosta, GA, his registered dental hygienist can perform a scaling and root planing treatment to restore the health of your gums.
Why Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a highly effective way to resolve early stages of periodontal disease. This condition is caused by deposits of plaque and calculus that have formed on root surfaces below the gumline. These deposits harbor harmful bacteria that cause the gum tissues to become inflamed and recede. Scaling and root planing can remove these deposits, allowing the gums to heal.
Removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline can reverse gum disease in the early stages.
The Procedure
Before scaling and root planing begins, the gum tissues numbed, either with a numbing gel or local anesthetic. The hygienist will use hand instruments along with an ultrasonic scaling device to efficiently and thoroughly clean the root surfaces. Next, the root surfaces are smoothed in order to reduce the risk of plaque and bacteria collecting in the future.
Dr. Hester can help you to resolve or control gum disease.
After the procedure, patients are placed on a special treatment program so that Dr. Hester and his hygienist can closely monitor their periodontal health in the future. Disease recurrence is always possible, but with effective daily home care and regular professional maintenance by Dr. Hester and his team, you are much more likely to avoid suffering gum disease again.
In more severe cases of gum disease involving deep periodontal pockets and recessed tissue, Dr. Hester may recommend gum surgery. You can depend on us to provide the right treatments to help you achieve and maintain the best possible oral health.
Preventing Gum Disease
Daily dental plaque removal is essential. During your visit to your office, our hygienist will ensure that you understand the proper brushing and flossing techniques. During each subsequent checkup, she can check to make certain that these techniques are helping you avoid plaque buildup. Between visits, make certain to brush twice and floss at least once each day, and follow any other directions your dentist has provided.
Book a Consultation
If you are experiencing red, inflamed, or bleeding gums, it is time to speak to a dentist. Dr. Hester can help you to resolve or control gum disease so that you can avoid many serious side effects such as tooth loss and an increased risk of heart disease. Send his staff a message online or give them a call at (229) 247-3400 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hester. We look forward to helping you experience the many benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile.