Root Planing Specialist

Root Planing Q & A

 

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a condition that affects the teeth and underlying bone when gingivitis has not been effectively treated.

Gingivitis is caused by infection, which develops from plague that remains on the surface of the teeth when tooth brushing has not been effective. Plaque develops into tartar, which is calcified deposits that accumulate on the surface and roots of the teeth. Tartar causes periodontitis, an infection that grows beneath the gum line and into the bone.

Symptoms include:

  • Tender or painful gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Increased space between teeth
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Unpleasant taste in the mouth

To treat periodontal disease, tartar buildup and its accompanying infection must be removed from the roots of the teeth in order to allow the gums and bone to heal.

What is root planing?

Root planing is an advanced treatment for periodontal disease. This treatment is often done in conjunction with root scaling, which removes the tartar calcifications that have accumulated on the surface of the teeth. After calcifications have been removed, root planing:

  • Smoothens the surface of the tooth
  • Removes any infected tooth tissue
  • Eliminates the source of infection

Once the source of infection has been removed from the roots of the teeth, the gums and surrounding tissues have a chance to heal and reattach to the roots again.

What does root planing entail?

At The Diablo Dental Group, they proudly offer laser-assisted root planing. Using advanced technology, your dentist is able to pinpoint specific treatment areas with accuracy.

Root planing and scaling treatments are usually done one section of the mouth at a time, over two or more visits. You are given local anesthesia so that you are comfortable throughout the process. You may have some tenderness immediately after your treatment, but this usually subsides within a couple of days.

Root planing, root scaling, and supportive periodontal therapy all work together to heal your periodontal disease and prevent bone and tooth loss.

For root planing and other periodontal disease treatments, call or schedule an appointment online with The Diablo Dental Group.