Gum Treatment
Often referred to as a Scaling & Root Planing (SRP) or a Deep Cleaning. SRP is the most effective way to treat gum disease. During SRP, the dentist cleans between the gums and teeth, down to the root. Your dentist may need to use a local anesthetic to numb the gums and the roots of your teeth while the procedure is performed. It is important that individuals with gum (periodontal) disease have this procedure done.
SRP Procedures
SRP involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and from the pocket area between the teeth and gums. Our dental hygienist will perform scaling and root planing using ultrasonic instruments.
The other part of deep cleaning is root planing. Our hygienist will use a scaling instrument to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of the roots of your teeth. Local anesthesia may be administered for this procedure. A follow-up visit may be necessary to confirm that your gums and teeth are getting healthier and there is no pocket depth.
Expectations After Treatment
After the SRP has been performed, the bacteria in the pockets of the teeth should be removed and in the next few weeks the gums should become healthier if the person is doing oral hygiene everyday.
You may experience mild discomfort for about 24 hours after the procedure. During this time, rinsing with warm salted water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 oz of warm water) every 2-4 hours will help. Remember to brush/floss other areas of your mouth not involved, but wait about 1-2 days before beginning light brushing of teeth which were "scaled".
If the deep scaling and 3 month visits to the dentist aren't enough to reverse periodontal disease, seeing a periodontist for a consultation should be required and determination of future treatment in regards to surgery should be considered.
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