Scaling and Root Planing in Wichita Falls, TX

If you have developed symptoms of gum (periodontal) disease, a regular cleaning might not be sufficient enough. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is usually treated with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a nonsurgical procedure performed by our highly skilled dentists in order to help eliminate gum disease by removing built-up plaque and tartar from the under the gumline. Using special tools, an SRP treatment at Stone Lake Dental cleans out the gum pockets, then smoothes the teeth to prevent future buildup. If you are concerned about your gums, learn more about scaling and root planing at Stone Lake Dental in Wichita Falls, TX.

During your dental exam, we will check the depth of your gum pockets. If the pockets, also known as sulcus, are greater than three millimeters, a scaling and root planing treatment may be recommended. SRP helps to reduce the size of your gum pockets so plaque and bacteria cannot collect in this area, which leads to the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis). Some of the early symptoms of gum disease are chronic bad breath, loose teeth, as well as gums that are swollen, tender, bleed easily, appear red, or are receding. If gum disease is caught early, one or more SRP treatments can reverse symptoms; however, if gum disease has progressed to later stages (periodontitis or advanced periodontitis), then you may require more extensive treatments.

Scaling and root planing is a deep periodontal cleaning that can be performed in our office with local anesthesia to numb the areas being treated. We may also recommend one of our sedation techniques if you feel anxious about having this procedure. A scaling instrument will be used to clean out built-up plaque and tartar in your gum pockets. The exterior of the tooth will then be smoothed and planed to reduce the number of areas where plaque and tartar can become trapped to prevent future buildup.

After your SRP treatment, you may experience increased gum and tooth sensitivity, as well as some numbness from the local anesthetic. You may be prescribed antibiotics to help eliminate any remaining bacteria from your gums. You should follow a good oral care routine at home, including proper brushing and flossing, to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. You should also schedule annual dental exams so we can assess the health of your gums and teeth, plus bi-annual appointments to have your mouth professionally cleaned. Depending on the original condition of your gums and your at-home oral care routine after an SRP treatment, you may need more SRP treatments to fully restore your oral health.

Scaling and root planing is a common procedure for the treatment of gum disease that is usually covered in part by dental insurance. We can contact your carrier to determine your coverage and personal costs. If you do not have dental insurance, Stone Lake Dental accepts many payment methods, including medical financing, that can be discussed during your consultation.

Gum disease can become painful and dangerous to your health so if you are experiencing any symptoms, please schedule an exam at our office in Wichita Falls, TX. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is usually treated with a simple scaling and root planing treatment at Stone Lake Dental. Please contact us to schedule an appointment or to get more information.