What To Know About Scaling and Root Planing

If you are suffering from gum disease, quick and effective intervention is key to restoring your oral health. While early-stage gum disease can often be remedied with a deep cleaning by your dentist, more extensive cases may require scaling and root planing procedures that remove hardened, intrusive plaque and help the root of the tooth reattach to your gums.

Family dentists Dr. Todd Vaccaro and Dr. Megan Curran of Vaccaro Family Dentistry in Niskayuna, NY, can help treat your painful, problematic gum disease with scaling and root planing.

What are the signs of gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by the extreme build-up of plaque which spreads to and irritates the gums.  It may result in gum inflammation and redness, loosening of your gums, or the development of pockets. You may experience bleeding and pain when brushing or eating.

What is scaling and root planing?

To remove stubborn plaque which can't be brushed away, your family dentist will scrape, or scale, away the hardened tartar using professional tools, which can reach along the gum line and in pockets where plaque can hide and effectively remove build-up on the teeth themselves. Next, your family dentist will perform root planing, with consists of smoothing out the roots of your teeth to allow your teeth to properly reattach to your gums.

What is the recovery for scaling and root planing like?

Pre-procedure at our Niskayuna, NY, office, you will receive a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Once the anesthetic wears off, you may experience swelling, mild pain, gum tenderness or bleeding, and sensitivity for a few days. Your family dentist may prescribe a pain reliever or mouth rinse to help promote healing. Once fully healed, make sure to keep your teeth healthy with frequent brushing, flossing, and visits to your dentist for professional cleanings and exams.

Call the Niskayuna, NY, office of family dentists Dr. Vaccaro and Dr. Curran at by dialing 518-377-3628 for all your dental care needs.

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