When your doctor finds out that you are suffering from gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis, the first treatment that you are required to undergo is deep teeth cleaning, and this is usually in the form of root planning and scaling. These processes are used to clean between the teeth, the gums and even down to the roots.
Root planing for gum disease is a good step in addressing your oral problems, since it targets the main problem which is plaque and tartar build-up.
When plaque and tartar build up in the teeth and gums, the area will become the breeding ground for bacteria. Bacteria are harmful because these cause gum tissue damage that leads to bleeding of gums, and loosening of teeth. In addition, when bacteria penetrate the bone holding the teeth, bone tissue is damaged, and may even result in tooth loss.
The Process
With the development of advanced technology, dental treatments have also evolved. Dentists in Dupont Circle, Washington D.C. usually use an ultrasonic tool for both root planing and scaling. By using this ultrasonic tool, the treatment will not be as uncomfortable compared to the traditional dental scraping tools used in the past.
Antibiotic fibers may also be placed in the pockets of the gums. The purpose of these is for speeding up the healing process, and preventing infection. These fibers are removed after one week from the time of treatment.
What to Expect After the Treatment
Since anaesthesia is usually used to dull any pain and discomfort you might experience, the lips and the gums may become numb. When you undergo root planing for gum disease, it is normal that you experience some soreness afterwards, particularly in the region under the gums. The teeth can also become more sensitive to temperature, and because of this, you can expect slight bleeding for a while.
If you think you cannot handle the discomfort that comes after your root planing treatment, you can take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen.
You can delay brushing and flossing to avoid bruising the tender gum areas. Saltwater and chlorhexidine rinses are also recommended.
Certain Risks
Although they do not occur often, sometimes there are risks to root planing. You should know that gum tissue, and the blood stream, may be at risk for infection.
If you have heart problems, then you are at risk of getting a heart infection called endocarditis. If you have an impaired immune system, then having root planing can also pose a risk. Talk to your dentist if you are concerned about the potential risks.
Root planing is one of the foremost procedures that can be conducted to address gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. To promote faster healing after treatment, avoid tobacco or cigarette smoking since these substances reduce the bodyâs ability to fight infection in the gums, and it will also delay healing.
