What is Root Planing Procedure: A Comprehensive Guide
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and other serious health issues. However, there are several treatments available for gum disease, including root planing, also known as deep cleaning.
In this article, we will discuss what root planing procedure is, how it works, who needs it, and what to expect before, during, and after the treatment.
What is Root Planing Procedure?
Root planing is a non-surgical dental procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from the roots of teeth. It is typically performed by a dentist or a dental hygienist and is designed to treat gum disease, which occurs when bacteria in plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and eventual tooth loss.
During the root planing procedure, the dentist or dental hygienist will use special instruments, such as ultrasonic scalers and curettes, to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the root surfaces of teeth. They will also smooth rough areas of the roots to prevent further bacterial growth.
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort and may take multiple visits to complete, depending on the severity of the gum disease.
Who Needs Root Planing Procedure?
Root planing is recommended for patients with moderate to severe gum disease. Common signs of gum disease include red, swollen, and bleeding gums, bad breath, and receding gums. Patients with a history of gum disease, smokers, and those with poor oral hygiene may also be recommended for root planing as a preventative measure.
Before recommending root planing, the dentist or periodontist will perform a thorough exam of the mouth, which may include X-rays, to determine the extent of the gum disease and any other underlying issues.
How Does Root Planing Procedure Work?
Root planing procedure involves several steps, including:
1.Scaling:
The dental professional will use an ultrasonic scaler or a hand-held scaling instrument to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
2.Root Planing:
The dentist or hygienist will use specialized instruments, called curettes, to smooth rough areas on the roots of teeth to prevent further bacterial growth.
3.Antibiotic Treatment:
In some cases, the dentist or periodontist may prescribe antibiotics to help control the infection and promote healing.
4.Follow-up Appointments:
After root planing, the patient will need to schedule follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and ensure the gum disease does not return.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Root Planing Procedure?
1.Before the procedure:
The dentist or periodontist will perform a thorough exam of the mouth to determine the extent of the gum disease and any other underlying issues. They may also take X-rays to assess the severity of the condition.
2.During the procedure:
The dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. They will also smooth rough areas on the roots of teeth to prevent further bacterial growth. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
3.After the procedure:
The patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding for a few days after the procedure. They should avoid hard or crunchy foods and maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, to promote healing and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
Conclusion
Root planing is a non-surgical dental procedure designed to treat gum disease by removing plaque and bacteria from the roots of teeth while smoothing rough areas to prevent further bacterial growth. It is typically recommended for patients with moderate to severe gum disease, and it may take multiple visits to complete. If you think you might need root planing or have any concerns about your oral health, talk to your dentist or periodontist for a thorough examination and personalized treatment plan.
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