Dental Scaling & Root Planing Saint-Lazare
Understanding Plaque, Calculus, and Gum Disease
Plaque is a sticky substance that forms on teeth and is full of bacteria. Over time, plaque can harden into calculus (tartar). Both plaque and calculus irritate your gums, leading to inflammation, bleeding, gum recession, and, eventually, bone loss around the teeth. This condition is known as periodontal (gum) disease.
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which is reversible and is often indicated by bleeding gums while brushing or flossing. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which causes significant gum deterioration, bone loss, and potential tooth loss.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are the most common treatments for periodontal disease:
- Scaling: Removes plaque and calculus from the tooth surface above and below the gum line.
- Root Planing: Smooths the root surface and removes remaining calculus to prevent bacteria from accumulating.
For extensive deposits, your dentist will numb the area to ensure your comfort. A combination of sonic and hand instruments is used: sonic instruments remove large deposits, and hand instruments finish the cleaning to ensure all surfaces are free of bacteria. Some sensitivity or soreness may occur for a few days after treatment and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
A follow-up visit at Angelique Dentaire is usually scheduled about four weeks after treatment to assess improvement. Regular check-ups (typically every 3 to 6 months) help monitor the disease. The goal is to eliminate active inflammation and reduce periodontal pockets so they do not trap plaque or calculus, maintaining healthy bone around your teeth.
