Periodontal disease affects many people, typically beginning so quietly that you might not notice any symptoms. Early gum disease, called gingivitis, usually presents as swollen, red, or bleeding gums. Catching it early and taking the proper steps allows you to restore your gum health before permanent damage. Here is how scaling and root planing can help reverse early gum disease:
Periodontal Disease Prevention
Gum disease starts when plaque, a sticky film containing bacteria, builds up along the gumline. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar. Tartar is much more difficult to remove and attracts even more bacteria. Your gums may react to the ongoing irritation, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and tenderness.
How Scaling and Root Planing Work
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist. Both can help your teeth last longer. These two procedures go below the gumline to target areas that brushing and flossing alone often miss:
- Scaling removes all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, especially below the gumline and in pockets where bacteria collect.
- Root planing smooths out the roots of your teeth, making it harder for new bacteria and tartar to take hold. Smoother root surfaces also give your gums a better opportunity to reattach to your teeth.
Key Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Early gum disease is reversible with the proper care and treatment. When at-home oral hygiene is not enough, scaling and root planing offer a deeper level of cleaning. It primarily targets plaque and tartar below the gumline.
Removing Plaque and Tartar
Once tartar forms beneath the gumline, it creates a breeding ground for bacteria. This deep cleaning removes the buildup that regular cleaning leaves behind. Without the constant irritation from bacteria and tartar, your gums have a better chance of healing.
Smoothing Roots of Teeth
Rough root surfaces provide hiding spots for bacteria. By smoothing the roots, root planing minimizes these places, reducing the risk of further buildup. This process supports healthy gum tissue and helps your mouth maintain a cleaner environment.
Reducing Gum Inflammation
Inflamed gums are sensitive, swollen, and prone to bleeding. Removing the sources of irritation helps reduce inflammation and makes your gums more comfortable. You may notice less bleeding when brushing or flossing after the procedure.
Preventing Gum Disease from Advancing
Untreated periodontal disease leads to receding gums, bone loss, and tooth loss over time. With scaling and root planing, you slow the progression of gum disease. It can give your mouth a better chance at recovering from early symptoms.
What To Expect
Scaling and root planing are performed with special dental instruments. Your dentist or hygienist may use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Depending on the extent of the buildup, multiple visits might be necessary. After treatment, you might notice your gums feel tender or slightly swollen, but this usually resolves within a few days. Your dentist may suggest using a soft-bristled brush, gentle mouth rinses, and excellent at-home oral hygiene.
Ask Your Dentist About Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing remove sources of irritation from your gums, support healing, and help return your mouth to a healthy state. A consistent cleaning schedule, at home and in the dental office, will help you maintain the improvements from this treatment for years to come. If you see early signs of gum disease, contacting a dental professional for evaluation and treatment supports your long-term oral health.
