Managing Your Gum Disease After a Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

Preparing for your upcoming scaling and root planing procedure? According to the American Academy of Periodontology, a periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. Ready to learn how to manage your gum disease?

Why gum disease needs to be managed

When one needs a scaling and root planing procedure, it means that there is a buildup of plaque below the gumline. This plaque needs to be removed in order to support the overall health of one’s gums, as well as the overall health of teeth. Plaque needs to be removed because it causes inflammation in the gums, also known as gum disease. This inflammation eventually leads to tooth loss. Preventing this is what makes regular dental cleanings so necessary.

The scaling and root planing procedure

While many people will make dental appointments and need a regular dental cleaning, some patients will need to undergo a scaling and root planing procedure, also known as a deep cleaning. Scaling and root planing procedures are necessary when a patient has plaque beneath their gumline. Once plaque starts to develop below one’s gum line, it is necessary for a periodontist to use special tools to remove the plaque beneath the gumline. Once the procedure is over, it is necessary for the patient to do everything possible to manage their gum disease.

After the scaling procedure

Managing gum disease is not difficult to do, as it simply requires patients to make and follow a plan that supports good gum health. Coming up with a plan often requires the periodontist and patient have a discussion about what must be done in order for the patient to experience good gum health from then on. The goal is to make it so the patient only needs regular dental cleanings. A gum-care plan may include brushing one's teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, as well as flossing one's teeth at least once a day to remove any hidden food particles that can cause cavities.

Making regular dental appointments is necessary for dental patients who wish to maintain good gum health. Those who have undergone a scaling and root planing procedure need to make dental appointments every three months for a period of one year. After this time, the patient will be reevaluated to determine how often they need to make regular dental appointments.

Bottom line

Dental patients who need a scaling and root planing procedure need to be sure to manage their gum disease after the procedure so they do not have to undergo this deep cleaning procedure again. If the patient is successful, they will only need to make regular dental appointments for regular cleanings. The fact that good gum health supports good teeth health makes it essential for all dental patients to ensure their gums are as healthy as can be at all times.

Request an appointment here: https://www.westtexasperio.com or call Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (432) 538-3318 for an appointment in our Odessa office.

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