The first line of defense against the spread of gum disease is a unique type of cleaning called scaling and root planing.
In this procedure, specialized instruments are used to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth where regular dental cleaning devices cannot reach.
This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is usually completed over two to four visits. The ultimate goal of this treatment is to leave a healthy, clean tooth and root surface that makes it easier for the gum tissue to reattach to the tooth.
If gum disease treatment is initiated before it become severe, scaling and root planing may be the only treatment you need. However, as with any dental procedure, your home care is essential to maintaining a health mouth and ensuring that our treatments are successful. In order to maintain a healthy mouth and resist further occurrences of gum disease, you must brush and floss daily, eat a healthy diet, avoid tobacco use, and have regular dental checkups.
—Kim D.