Scaling and Root Planing (Gum Disease) in Rogers, AR

If you've developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate enough to help. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is typically corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a simple procedure performed by Dr. Brett Cotham to help eliminate periodontal disease by removing built-up tartar and plaque from the below the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment cleans under the gumline, then smoothes the surface of your teeth to avoid further buildup. If you're worried about your gums, find out more about SRP at All About Smiles in Rogers, AR.

At your dental examination, Dr. Cotham will assess how deep your gum pockets are. In the event your gum pockets, also called sulcus, are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing therapy could be recommended. SRP can help to decrease the size of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the very first phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). A number of the early signs of periodontal disease are loose teeth in addition to gums that are tender, swollen, bleed easily, look red, or have begun to recede. When periodontal disease is diagnosed at the onset, one or more scaling and root planing therapies can improve these symptoms, but when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you might need more comprehensive therapies.

SRP is a deep cleaning that may be carried out in our office using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being addressed. We might also suggest sedation methods if you are feeling stressed about having SRP. Dr. Cotham will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. We will subsequently plane or smooth the outside of the enamel to decrease the number of regions where tartar and plaque may get caught to avoid future problems.

Following your SRP therapy, you might have greater tooth and gum sensitivity in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Cotham can write a prescription for antibiotics that will help remove any residual bacteria from the gums. You should adhere to a good oral hygiene regimen in your home, such as daily flossing and brushing, to keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. You also should schedule yearly dental examinations so we can evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, as well as bi-annual visits to get your teeth cleaned. Based on the initial state of your mouth and your own home care following an SRP therapy, you might need several more scaling and root planing procedures to totally restore your gums.

SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease that's generally paid for in part by dental insurance. Our team will get in touch with your provider to find out your policy and individual expenses. If you don't have dental insurance, then All About Smiles takes numerous payments, including low-interest financing, which may be explained in your appointment.

Periodontal disease may become dangerous and painful for your health so if you're having symptoms, then please schedule an appointment with us at our office in Rogers, AR. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is normally corrected using a very simple SRP process at All About Smiles. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more details.