Scaling and Root Planing

If your teeth are sensitive or your gums bleed when you floss or brush, you might be suffering from gingivitis or gum disease. Patients who come in for regular cleanings are much less likely to suffer from periodontal disease.  If you’re not taking care of your oral hygiene, the bacteria and plaque can advance to gum disease and it becomes more difficult to treat. While gum disease sounds like a scary thing, the good news is that there are treatment options available.

 

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. There are many different forms of periodontal disease but all of them can cause serious damage to the mouth. The mildest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis causes the gums to become red, swollen and bleed easily. The biggest cause of gingivitis is lack of a regular oral hygiene regimen. Preventative measures, such as regular brushing and flossing, go a long way when it comes to preventing periodontal disease. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral health practices at home.

 

We offer a non-surgical, non-invasive option known as scaling and root planning for those who have gum disease. This deep cleaning procedure is a great alternative to surgical options. Scaling involves removing built-up plaque below the gum line using either manual scraping instruments or an ultrasonic tool. When we do your root planing, we essentially gently sand your teeth, removing rough spots on the tooth surfaces and roots, which tend to harbor bacteria.

 

If you fear that you might be suffering from gingivitis or gum disease, set up an appointment with one of our skilled dentists at our New York, NY dental practice so we can go over treatment options.