Overview
If you’ve developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is usually corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a nonsurgical procedure done by seasoned dentist Dr. Huy Tran to help eliminate gum disease by removing built-up tartar and plaque from the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment in My Island Dental cleans out the gum pockets then smoothes the surface of your teeth to avoid further buildup. If you’re worried about your gums find out more about scaling and root planing at My Island Dental in Merritt Island, FL.
Best Candidates
In your dental examination, Dr. Tran will check how deep your gum pockets are. In the event your gum pockets, also called sulcus, are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing therapy may be recommended. SRP helps to decrease the size of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the first phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). A number of these early signs of gum disease are chronic bad breath, loose teeth, in addition to gums that are swollen, tender, bleed easily, look red, or are receding. When gum disease is caught early, one or more scaling and root planing treatments can reverse signs, but when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you might need more comprehensive treatments.
What To Expect
SRP is a deep cleaning that may be performed in our office using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being addressed. We might also suggest sedation methods should if you are feeling anxious about using this process. Dr. Tran will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. Dr. Tran will subsequently plane or smooth the exterior of the enamel to decrease the amount of regions where tartar and plaque may get caught to avoid future problems.
Recovery
Following your SRP therapy, you might experience greater tooth and gum sensitivity, in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Tran can write a prescription for antibiotics that will help remove any residual bacteria from the gums. You should follow 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 Dr. Tran 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 mouth and your own home care following an SRP therapy, you might need more scaling and root planing procedures to fully restore your oral health.
Insurance Coverage
SRP is a frequent procedure for treating gum disease that’s typically paid partially by dental insurance. We will get in touch with your provider to determine your policy and individual expenses. If you don’t have dental insurance, then My Island Dental takes many payments, including low-interest financing, which may be discussed in your appointment.
SRP for Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease may get dangerous and painful for your health, so if you’re having symptoms, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Tran in his office in Merritt Island, FL. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is usually corrected using a very simple SRP process at My Island Dental. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more information.
