You visit the dentist every six months for your dental check-up and professional cleaning, then one visit the dentist tells you that you have gum disease. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum tissue that could affect the teeth and supporting bone in your mouth. Plaque bacteria, acids and certain foods all contribute to the development of gum disease. Fortunately, two common methods exist to reverse the disease — dental scaling and root planing.

Dental Scaling And Root Planing To Keep Your Teeth And Mouth Clean
How Will It Feel?
If your gum tissue is sensitive and diseased, local anesthesia can be administered to numb the tissue. If your teeth are sensitive before or after the professional cleaning, it may be recommended that you use a desensitizing paste to provide you with sensitivity relief. Dental scaling and root planing may take two to four visits based upon the level of oral disease in the mouth. If you have periodontal disease, dental scaling and root planing will be completed first and then periodontal surgery will be conducted thereafter.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.