Is Gum Disease Silently Eroding Your Smile?
Imagine the peace of mind that comes with knowing your smile’s foundation is strong and healthy. If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or other signs of gum disease, you’re not alone. At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we understand the anxieties associated with periodontal issues, and we’re here to provide gentle scaling and root planing. Dr. Howard and our team are dedicated to restoring your gum health through procedures like scaling and root planing, right here in your neighborhood.
Call one of the top dentists in Loveland, CO, today at (970) 669-3918 to schedule your appointment. We welcome patients from Evans, Garden City, and Windsor.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure designed to treat periodontal (gum) disease. It’s often referred to as a “deep cleaning” because it goes beyond the typical dental cleaning to address issues below the gum line. Here’s a breakdown:
Scaling:
This part of the procedure involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces, both above and below the gum line. Dental instruments, including ultrasonic scalers and hand scalers, are used to carefully scrape away these hardened deposits.
Root Planing:
Following scaling, root planing smooths the root surfaces of the teeth. This smoothing makes it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to the roots, promoting gum tissue healing. It also helps to reduce inflammation and allows the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing Treatment
This procedure offers several significant benefits for individuals with gum disease:
- Improved Gum Health: By removing plaque and tartar, scaling and root planing reduces gum inflammation and promotes healing. This helps to restore gum tissue to a healthier state.
- Prevention of Bone Loss: Periodontal disease can lead to bone loss, which can ultimately result in tooth loss. Scaling and root planing helps to halt the progression of bone loss and protect the supporting structures of the teeth.
- Reduced Pocket Depth: The procedure helps to eliminate periodontal pockets, making it easier to clean and maintain healthy gums. This reduction in pocket depth also reduces the chance of future infections.
- Fresher Breath: Bacteria buildup contributes to bad breath. By removing these bacteria, scaling and root planing helps to improve breath freshness.
- Prevention of Tooth Loss: This procedure significantly reduces the risk of tooth loss.
- Enhanced Overall Health: There are links between oral health and systemic health. Treating gum disease can positively impact your general well-being.
Financing Scaling and Root Planing Costs Near You
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we understand that investing in your gum health is an investment in your overall well-being. We’re committed to making scaling and root planing treatments accessible, ensuring that financial concerns don’t stand in the way of your oral health. We’ll always work with you to find financial solutions that align with your needs and budget.
- Major Credit Cards & Insurance: Our practice accepts most major credit cards and collaborates with a wide range of insurance plans. We’ll assist you in navigating insurance claims and paperwork specifically related to your periodontal treatment, maximizing your benefits.
- Interest-Free Payment Plans: We offer interest-free payment plans, allowing you to spread the cost of your scaling and root planing over time, making it more manageable.
- Third-party Financing: For those seeking additional flexibility in covering periodontal expenses, we partner with Momnt Financing, CareCredit, and LendingClub, providing access to convenient financing options.
Take the First Step Today!
Ready to invest in the ongoing health of your gums with scaling and root planing? Contact us at (970) 669-3918 to discuss your financial options for periodontal treatment and schedule your appointment. We’re here to help you achieve and maintain the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve, with financial solutions that work for you.
The Scaling and Root Planing Process
The scaling and root planing procedure can be completed through the following steps:
- Evaluation: Our dentist will evaluate the extent of gum disease through dental X-rays and measurements of the gum pockets.
- Local Anesthetic: We’ll use a local anesthetic, or another form of dental sedation, to numb the area before starting the procedure.
- Scaling: Our dentist will use special tools to remove the plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line. This is also known as dental scaling.
- Root Planing: The tooth root can become rough due to uneven plaque and tartar buildup. Your Loveland dentist will smooth out the rough surfaces of the tooth root to prevent further bacterial growth and encourage the gums to reattach to the teeth.
- Antibacterial Rinse: An antibacterial rinse will be given to you to help flush out any remaining bacteria.
Aftercare for Scaling and Root Planing
Following scaling and root planing, consistent home care is crucial for maintaining gum health:
- Gentle Brushing and Flossing: Continue your regular oral hygiene routine, being gentle around the gum line.
- Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Use a mouthwash recommended by Dr. Howard to help control bacteria.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your gum health and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, scaling and root planing doesn’t hurt. Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Some mild tenderness may occur afterward, but it is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The number of appointments depends on the severity of the gum disease. It may require multiple visits to complete the treatment.
Scaling and root planing is not a routine cleaning. It is performed when gum disease or chronic periodontal disease is present. Regular dental cleanings and checkups are recommended to prevent the need for this procedure.
Recover Your Healthy Smile with Our Loveland Dentist
Do you long for the comfort and confidence that comes with healthy gums? Are you ready to take a proactive step toward protecting your smile’s foundation? At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we understand the emotional distress caused by gum disease.
Contact us today at (970) 669-3918 to schedule your appointment and begin your journey to optimal gum health. We welcome patients in Fort Collins, Windsor, and Berthoud.