Scaling and Root Planing in Haslet, TX

If you've developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is typically corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a simple procedure done by dentist Luke Riley to help eliminate periodontal disease by removing built-up tartar and plaque from below the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment at Riley Dental cleans under the gumline, smoothes the surface of your teeth to avoid further buildup, and applies an antiseptic to help kill any remaining bacteria. If you're worried about your gums, find out more about SRP at Riley Dental in Haslet, TX.

At your dental examination, Dr. Riley will assess how deep your gum pockets are. In the event that your gum pockets, also called sulcus, are more than three millimeters, a scaling and root planing therapy could be recommended. SRP can help to decrease the size of the gum pockets so that bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the very first phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). Some of the early signs of periodontal disease are loose teeth as well as 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), you might need more comprehensive therapies.

Scaling and root planing procedures conducted at Riley Dental can help address the early stages of periodontal disease and keep more serious issues, such as sever periodontitis, away. Advantages of this treatment at our Haslet, TX office include:

• Managing periodontal disease and halting its progression
• Enhancing gum hygiene and reducing the risk of losing teeth
• Safeguarding your overall oral well-being
• Defending against severe infections
• Possibly averting the need for more complex procedures
• Enhancing the aesthetic of your smile

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 if you are feeling stressed about having SRP. Dr. Riley will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. To avoid future problems, he will then plane, or smooth, the outside of the enamel to decrease the number of tiny rough spots where tartar and plaque may get caught.

Following your SRP therapy, you might have greater tooth and gum sensitivity in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Riley 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 should also schedule yearly dental examinations so that Dr. Riley 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 oral health and your own home care following an SRP therapy, you might need several more scaling and root planing procedures to totally restore your gums.

SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease, and it is generally paid for in part by dental insurance. Our team will get in touch with your provider to find out the particulars of your policy and individual expenses. If you don't have dental insurance, Riley Dental takes many methods of payment and offers several in-office payment plans. We also accept third-party financing via CareCredit, which we can explain at your appointment.

Is scaling and root planing painful?
The SRP procedure itself is usually not painful because a local anesthetic is used to numb the area being treated. After the procedure, some people may experience sensitivity, discomfort, or mild pain, which can generally be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How often will I need scaling and root planing?
The frequency of your SRP procedures at Riley Dental will depend on the severity of your gum disease. Some people may need it only once, while others with advanced periodontitis may require multiple treatments or maintenance cleanings every few months.

What's the difference between regular cleaning and scaling and root planing?
Regular cleanings, or prophylaxis, remove plaque and tartar above the gum line and are usually done as a preventive measure. Scaling and root planing, on the other hand, is a deeper cleaning for people with gum disease and involves removing tartar and smoothing root surfaces below the gum line.

Periodontal disease may become painful and dangerous for your health, so if you're having symptoms, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Riley at his practice in Haslet, TX. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is normally corrected using a very simple SRP process at Riley Dental. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more details.