Scaling & Root Planing in Sherman Oaks
In Sherman Oaks, maintaining exceptional oral health is a priority for individuals who value their smiles. At Clove Dental, we offer specialized scaling and root planing services to combat gum disease and enhance your overall oral wellness. Whether you’re noticing early signs of gum issues or require a deeper level of cleaning, our compassionate and skilled dental team is here to help you preserve your beautiful, healthy smile.
What is Scaling & Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-invasive periodontal procedure designed to treat gum disease at its core.
This two-step deep cleaning process includes:
- Scaling: The removal of plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and below the gumline where bacteria thrive.
- Root Planing: Smoothing out the tooth roots to eliminate rough spots that trap bacteria and to encourage the gums to reattach securely to the teeth.
Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective ways to manage gum disease and promote long-term gum health.
Signs You Might Need Scaling & Root Planing
Gum disease can develop silently, but there are key symptoms to look out for, including:
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed when you brush, floss, or eat can indicate gum inflammation.
- Swollen or Red Gums: Persistent swelling and redness are common signs of periodontal issues.
- Receding Gums: Gums pulling back from the teeth can expose tooth roots and cause sensitivity.
- Chronic Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath often results from bacteria buildup below the gumline.
- Loose Teeth: Gum disease can weaken the structures that support your teeth.
- Deep Pockets: Enlarged spaces between the teeth and gums create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, scaling and root planing at Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks can restore your gum health and prevent further complications.
Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing
Opting for scaling and root planing offers numerous advantages, such as:
Prevents Disease Progression
Stops gum disease from advancing to more severe stages.
Reduces Inflammation
Protects Against Tooth Loss
Freshens Breath
The Scaling & Root Planing Procedure at Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks
At Clove Dental, we’re committed to ensuring your scaling and root planing experience is as comfortable and effective as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: We begin with a detailed examination of your gums, measuring the depth of periodontal pockets and identifying areas of concern.
- Anesthetic for Comfort: A local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area, ensuring a pain-free procedure.
- Scaling: Our skilled hygienists use advanced tools to carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
- Root Planing: The roots of your teeth are smoothed to eliminate rough surfaces and encourage healthy gum reattachment.
- Aftercare Instructions: Post-procedure care is essential. We’ll provide guidance on maintaining excellent oral hygiene and recommend follow-up visits to monitor your progress.
For some patients, the procedure may be completed over multiple appointments depending on the severity of the gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Scaling and root planing is recommended for patients with moderate to severe gum disease or when regular cleanings are insufficient to address the problem.
We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Some patients may experience mild tenderness or sensitivity afterward, but this typically resolves within a few days.
The time required depends on the extent of the gum disease. Your dentist will provide a personalized treatment timeline during your consultation.
While scaling and root planing is highly effective, maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent recurrence.
Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, which may include gentle brushing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and avoiding certain foods for a few days.
