Scaling and root planing is a common and effective procedure that is often included as part of the personalized periodontal care that our dentist provides. Whether you have an advanced or initial stage of periodontal disease, scaling and root planing is a necessary service. This treatment consists of two specific steps:
- A thorough cleaning of any buildup of plaque and tartar. When below the gum line, plaque and tartar are responsible for creating and irritating the periodontal pockets.
- Scaling and root planing, which smooths out the tooth and root surfaces, making it more difficult for bacteria to stick to the teeth. This will promote healthier gums and can even help the gums reattach to the teeth, resulting in shrinking of the pocket.
Depending on the depth of the pocket, Dr. LeeAnn Hatfield may wish to make the area numb so that the process is more comfortable for you. Oraqix is a great alternative for numbing the tissue; it is a needle-free anesthetic gel that is placed on the area of discomfort which creates a numbing response, thus avoiding numbing of the tongue and lips.
If you are in need of periodontal care, call us today at 864-968-8811 to request an appointment with our dentist at Hatfield Cosmetic & Family Dentist.
