Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are non-surgical, deep dental cleaning procedures designed to prevent mild to moderate periodontal disease from worsening to severe stage. Here at Monroe Avenue Dental, our Corvallis dentist and team are trained to provide periodontal therapy to help protect your smile.
How to Halt Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease damages the gums and bones that support your teeth. Early stages may manifest as gingivitis (gum disease) with symptoms of swollen, red, bleeding gums. The gums are reacting to tartar buildup, which is full of bacteria that can eat away at these support structures. Tartar is a cement-like crust that builds up on the teeth around the gumline. Good oral health habits like good brushing, flossing, and keeping your regular dental cleaning appointments can keep tartar from getting to this dangerous stage. However, if periodontal disease advances, your Corvallis dentist can perform scaling and root planing to halt its progression.
Scaling
During scaling, your dental hygienist will carefully scrape tartar from above and below the gumline, removing it from any deep pockets of infection in the gums.
Root Planing
Root planing involves resurfacing and polishing affected tooth roots to prevent tartar from reforming on these surfaces under the gums.
Dental Scaling and Root Planing in Corvallis
Scaling and root planing are deep, extensive periodontal therapies that often require more than one appointment. If you have any concerns about your oral health, please schedule an appointment with Monroe Avenue Dental in Corvallis, OR today.
