Scaling and Root Planing in Houston, TX
If you have gum disease, Perio Health may recommend root and scaling procedure in Houston, TX to get rid of it. Gum disease can lead to eventual bone and tooth loss, making it a serious condition. We provide preventive care to prevent gum disease and other painful conditions.
Regular dental check-ups twice a year are recommended to remove plaque and tartar before they cause gum disease, gum recession, and the need for more invasive procedures such as root scaling and planing. If the procedure is necessary, please contact us today at (713) 783-5442, and we will ensure that your comfort is prioritized during the process.
What is Root and Scaling Procedure in Houston, TX?
Root and scaling procedure involves removing plaque and tartar underneath the gum tissue. This can be done using metal dental tools, ultrasound energy, and lasers. Our dentists will break up the plaque and tartar before scraping it out. If the roots have plaque buildup as well, the root planing procedure will scale them to remove the plaque and then smooth out any rough areas so that the tooth can be both healthy and fully functional.
How Long Does Root Scaling and Planing Take?
In most cases, this procedure will need to be broken up into four appointments. This allows a dentist to separate your mouth into quadrants and clean each one of them individually. Since the process is very methodical, it takes longer than the standard teeth cleaning and your gums may experience some irritation and swelling. By only cleaning one area of the mouth at a time, the process is more manageable and the recovery time is reduced.
Will the Dentist Use Anesthesia?
Yes. Your gums will be numbed before the root scaling and planing procedure starts. There are times when our dentists may also use nitrous oxide or other forms of sedation to help relax you prior to getting started. When sedation is used, our experts can sometimes complete more of the procedure in one sitting. Additionally, you may want to use a desensitizing toothpaste afterward to further numb the gums.
What are the Risks Involved in the Procedure?
There is a risk of developing an infection from this procedure. The risk can be reduced by rinsing with warm saltwater throughout the day and keeping your teeth clean. We may also prescribe you an antibiotic rinse to use. However, the biggest risk comes from not having the procedure completed at all. That can lead to more severe gum disease, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
What Should I Expect During and After Root Scaling and Planing?
During the procedure, your gums will be numbed, and your teeth will be very slowly and methodically cleaned. Very often, an ultrasound is used to help break up the plaque and tartar before a dental tool scrapes it off the tooth. Our dentists may use lasers to complete the entire oral scaling procedure. Afterward, your gums will be sore, and they will swell and may ache in general. You can help control this with ibuprofen and ice packs if necessary. Typically, the worst part is over within four hours, so you may just want to go home and sleep.
For several days to a week or more, you may experience some sensitivity when eating, especially with sweet foods. One way to address this is to use something soft to clean the area and then place a desensitizing toothpaste on a Q-tip to be gently applied to the area around your gums. There will be some bleeding when you brush your teeth, but this should only last for a day or two.
Schedule an Appointment With Us Today!
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your gums or the root and scaling procedure in Houston, TX, please contact our dental office at (713) 783-5442 to schedule an appointment. Our team is available to provide you with the necessary information and address any of your concerns.