Scaling and Root Planing in Williston, VT

If you've developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate enough. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is usually corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a nonsurgical procedure done by dentist Dr. Lauren Shanard to help eliminate gum disease by removing built-up tartar and plaque from the below the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment in Contemporary Dental Arts 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 Contemporary Dental Arts in Williston, VT.

At your dental examination, Dr. Shanard 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 the 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.

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 if you are feeling anxious about having SRP. Dr. Shanard will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. Dr. Shanard 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.

Following your SRP therapy, you might experience greater tooth and gum sensitivity, in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Shanard 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. Shanard 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.

SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease that's usually paid for in part 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 Contemporary Dental Arts takes many payments, including low-interest financing, which may be discussed in your appointment.

Gum disease may become dangerous and painful for your health, so if you're having symptoms, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Shanard at her office in Williston, VT. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is usually corrected using a very simple SRP process at Contemporary Dental Arts. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more details.