Periodontal Treatment
Your periodontal (gum) tissues are an important part of your oral health. That is because periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. The bacteria found in plaque and tartar produce acids that eat away at your enamel, and lead to an infection of the periodontal tissues. This infection can cause the underlying bone and supportive tissues to deteriorate. Eventually, the deterioration will cause the tooth to loosen and fall out. At Rifkin & Raanan we perform a procedure known as scaling and root planing to combat periodontal disease and prevent tooth loss.
Periodontal Disease
Most people probably know periodontal disease by its other name, gum disease. Gum disease is caused by the bacteria found in the thin biofilm (plaque) that constantly forms on your teeth and surrounding tissues. If plaque is not eliminated from the teeth and gums, it can calcify into tartar deposits. Tartar is much more difficult to remove. In fact, most tartar deposits can only be removed during a professional cleaning.
In response to plaque and tartar your immune system produces toxins to eliminate the bacteria. Unfortunately, these toxins also target your periodontal tissues and cause an infection. This infection leads to the two forms of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
When Do You Need a Scaling and Root Planing?
During your checkup, Dr. Rifkin will check for signs of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is broken down into two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is characterized by red and swollen gums that tend to bleed easily. Luckily, gingivitis is very treatable and easily reversible. Most of the time, improving your oral health care routine and regular cleanings can eliminate gingivitis.
Periodontitis is much more serious and cannot be reversed. If you suffer from periodontitis, you will also experience swollen and red gums. However, the infection can lead to permanent damage to the underlying bone and connective tissues. When this happens, your gums will pull away from your teeth, causing deep periodontal pockets to form. Plaque and food debris can then get trapped in these pockets and cause further damage.
If we notice signs of periodontitis, we may recommend a scaling and root planing. Symptoms of periodontitis include bad breath, heavy tartar buildup, and unhealthy pocket depths of 4mm or more.
Scaling and Root Planing Procedure
During a scaling and root planing, we will use local anesthetic to numb the area and minimize discomfort. Next, we will use a device known as an ultrasonic scaler to breakup plaque and tartar deposits. An ultrasonic scaler uses water and vibrations to produce microscopic bubbles on the surface of your teeth. The bubbles implode on the teeth to eliminate the plaque and tartar. They also kill the bacteria that lead to periodontal disease. Once we remove as much plaque and tartar as possible, we will plane the roots. By smoothing out rough areas, we reduce the chances of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from reestablishing on the root. It will also help the gum tissue re-adhere to the tooth to create a healthy, snug fit.
After a Scaling and Root Planing
A scaling and root planing may take more than one appointment to complete. Once the procedure is complete, you may experience some minor discomfort or soreness. We will ask you to schedule a follow-up appointment, so we can check on the healing of your gums and the status of your pockets. In most cases, the procedure will be a success! You red and swollen gum tissue will become firm and pink again. Your periodontal pockets will also return to a healthy depth. If all goes according to plan, you may not need any further treatment. If the periodontal disease persists, you may need a surgical procedure known as a gum graft. You may also need a bone graft to restore deteriorated bone. Luckily, a scaling and root planing usually lessens the amount of surgery necessary to restore your gums.
Preventing Periodontal disease
The good news is that periodontal disease is easy to prevent. With a strong oral health care routine, you can avoid the devastating effects of periodontal disease. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis. This is the best way to eliminate plaque from your teeth. Regular checkups and professional cleanings are also a crucial part of your periodontal health. If you have had periodontal disease before, we may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash for extra protection.
If you would like to learn more about your periodontal health, click or call today!
Testimonials
People rated our Services
“Dr Rifkin has the hands of an angel. Never had any pain with his procedures. He is the Michelangelo of restorative dentistry. I’ve been going to him for forty years and will be going to him after he retires.”
“Dr. Rifkin is simply the best. Not everybody is lucky enough to become his patient. He is a caring Dentist first. Period. But he is also an artist with an eye for detail ... just a rare find. His smiles are so natural, so translucent and luminous you would never know that they aren't made by nature.”
“Great experience Dr. Rifkin and his staff are both pleasant and professional. It’s over a two hour drive for me but worth the trip for superior dentistry!”