SCALING & ROOT PLANING
275 N Frontage Rd
Forsyth, GA 31029
478-992-9104
Call us today!
Opening Hours
Mon - Thu: 8:30 - 5:00
Appointments
info@southernsmilesofforsyth.com
Scaling & Root Planing
HOME / SERVICES / GENERAL DENTISTRY / SCALING & ROOT PLANING
SCALING & ROOT PLANING

Why Do I Need It?

Gum disease is caused by a biofilm of bacteria called plaque. Plaque is always forming on your teeth, but if they aren’t cleaned well, the bacteria in plaque can cause your gums to become inflamed. Diabetes, smoking, stress and hereditary factors are all directly linked to periodontal disease. It is also now known that gum disease is linked to heart disease, pancreatic cancer and Alzheimers. Anaerobic bacteria then gets trapped in these pockets and cannot be removed with regular brushing. If untreated, gum disease could lead to bone and tooth loss.

If gum disease is caught early and hasn’t damaged the structures below the gum line, a professional cleaning should do. If the pockets between your gums and teeth are too deep, however, scaling and root planing may be needed.

Procedure

This deep cleaning normally requires more than one appointment in order to adequately treat the diseased pockets. Scaling is when your hygienist removes all the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and below the gumline, making sure to clean all the way down to the bottom of the pocket. Your hygienist will then begin root planing, smoothing out your teeth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth. Scaling and root planing may take more than one visit to complete and generally requires the use of a topical anesthetic or a local anesthetic to achieve the best results.

Continuing Care

After scaling and root planing, you may have discomfort for a day or two and teeth sensitivity. The addition of a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help with this. Your gums also may be swollen, feel tender and bleed. It is important during this time to continue to be diligent with the home care instructions from your hygienist so that the gum tissue can heal.

To prevent infection, control pain or help you heal, your dentist may prescribe a pill or mouth rinse.

Your hygienist will schedule a follow up visit to evaluate your periodontal health and also your home care. If they have gotten deeper, more treatment may be needed. 

Good dental care at home is essential to help keep gum disease from becoming more serious or recurring. Floss your teeth daily, brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush, eat a balanced diet, avoid using tobacco and see your dentist regularly.
Gum Disease
Tooth pain can be caused by various problems. Oral examination can help determine the cause.
Flossing
Flossing can also be an effective everyday tactic to combat gum disease.
Regular Appointments
Keeping your regular six month appointment allows us to track your gum health.
Sealants
Sealants are a usually addition to your regular checkup appointments and prevent cavaties.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

To ensure scaling and root planing is affordable to all of our patients, we offer a variety of payment methods. We accept most major credit cards, checks, and cash. In addition to these traditional methods we accept health savings accounts, CareCredit. If you have a specific payment question call our office, or ask during your appointment.

INSURANCE

Prior to scheduling treatment at our office, you'll speak with our financial coordinator to discuss the cost of your scaling and root planing and the financial specifics of your individual care. If you have insurance, usually this service is covered with your policy; however, that may not always be the case. If you don't have insurance, we'll outline your options for you!

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR SCALING & ROOT PLANING.

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