Scaling & Root Planing – Leesburg, VA

Removing Harmful Plaque to Improve Gum Health

No one wants to learn they have gum disease. Unfortunately, for millions of adults living in the United States, it is an all-too-common realization that is often void of treatment. What can easily start at gingivitis (and be reversed) can quickly escalate to periodontitis, which means the infection and inflammation attack the bone, teeth, and can even spread throughout the body. At Downtown Family Dental of Leesburg, our team wants to help you avoid this possibility; however, should it progress before proper steps are taken, there is a way to minimize complications and improve gum health – scaling and root planing in Leesburg. Using this technique, our team can prevent further reinfection and get your smile back on track. To learn more about this unique method of care, review the following information and contact our office to schedule an appointment.

A man having his teeth and gums examined to determine if he needs scaling and root planing in Leesburg

How Does Scaling & Root Planing Work?

A digital image of a dental instrument being used to scrape away plaque and tartar accumulations on a tooth and near the gum line

The process of undergoing scaling and root planing is two-fold. First, Dr. Pham and her team will need to examine your teeth and gums to determine there are gum pocket formations and plaque and tartar spreading beneath the surface. Once this is established, you will be provided with mild sedation, if necessary, to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

Dr. Pham will then begin to use specialized dental instruments to perform the scaling part of the process. This requires scraping away any plaque and tartar accumulations around your teeth and gum line before moving deep within the gum pocket. Once she is finished with this step, she will move on to the root planing portion. Because gum disease causes the tissue to pull away from your tooth root, she will need to smooth out this area to encourage the tissue to reattach and prevent further gum recession.

To prevent further reinfection, it will likely be necessary for Dr. Pham to recommend more frequent dental checkups and cleanings (about every 3 months) to ensure your gum tissue is healthy.

Who Needs Scaling & Root Planing?

A dental professional performing gum disease treatment on a female patient

If you suffer from any of the following problems, you are a likely candidate for scaling and root planing:

Teeth that appear much longer than before (receding gums)
Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing (this could be a sign of gingivitis, which can easily be reversed if caught early)
Gum pockets are forming, which can easily trap bacteria and food particles
Loose teeth, as this is often a sign that the bone is being attacked and beginning to weaken
Plaque and tartar accumulations around your teeth and gum line

Why is the Procedure Beneficial?

An older man wearing glasses and a white button-down dress shirt smiling with his arms folded across his chest

If you want to restore your gum health and feel better about your smile, you will find that scaling and root planing is an incredibly beneficial method of treatment. Here’s why:

It is a great way to minimize the potential for future reinfection
It ensures you keep your natural teeth longer and avoid unnecessary tooth replacement solutions
You have the opportunity to enjoy a healthier, more beautiful smile
It prevents your body’s immune system from further weakening, affecting your heart, brain, kidneys, liver, and other areas of your body

Aftercare Instructions

A young woman standing in front of her mirror brushing her teeth

When returning home from your scaling and root planing procedure, there are a few things you’ll want to remember, such as:

If you received anesthesia/sedation, make sure you avoid eating or chewing until the effects wear off
For the first 48 hours, eat soft foods
Avoid smoking, using tobacco products, or drinking for at least 3 days
If you have pain medication, take it as instructed
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to minimize discomfort and swelling
Continue to perform your oral hygiene routine but be careful around your gum line and only use a soft-bristled toothbrush

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