Dental Scaling & Root Planing Cornwall
Understanding Plaque, Calculus, and Gum Disease
Plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms on teeth and contains large amounts of bacteria. If it is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden over time into a substance called calculus (also known as tartar).
Both plaque and calculus irritate the gums and surrounding tissues. The body’s response to this irritation leads to inflammation, which can result in bleeding gums, gum recession, and, in more advanced cases, bone loss around the teeth. This condition is known as periodontal (gum) disease.
The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis. At this stage, the condition is reversible and commonly presents with symptoms such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can cause irreversible damage, including bone loss and eventual tooth loss.
Scaling and Root Planing Treatment
Scaling and root planing is a common non-surgical treatment used to manage periodontal disease. It focuses on thoroughly cleaning the tooth surfaces both above and below the gum line.
Scaling removes plaque and hardened calculus deposits from the teeth, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to help the gums reattach and reduce bacterial accumulation.
In cases where significant buildup is present, local anesthesia may be used to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Dentists use a combination of ultrasonic (sonic) instruments and manual tools to effectively remove deposits and clean all affected surfaces.
Some mild sensitivity or soreness may occur after treatment, but this is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medication.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Following treatment at Dentistry @ Cornwall, a follow-up visit is typically scheduled after a few weeks to evaluate healing and improvement in gum health. Additional maintenance visits may be recommended every 3 to 6 months depending on the severity of the condition.
The main goal of periodontal therapy is to reduce inflammation, eliminate bacterial infection, and minimize the depth of gum pockets to help maintain healthy bone support around the teeth.
