Deep Cleaning: Scaling & Root Planing at Blauer Family Dental in Spearfish, SD
“Dr. Blauer and his staff are terrific!”
When it comes to ensuring optimal oral health, there’s more to the story than just regular brushings and the occasional filling. At Blauer Family Dental in Spearfish, SD, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive dental care services that cater to the varied needs of our patients. One such essential service is deep cleaning, also known as Scaling and Root Planing. This procedure plays a crucial role in preventing and treating periodontal diseases.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
“We love Dr. Blauer!! He has treated our whole family, and is the most gentle dentist we’ve ever been to. My kids say they won’t ever go back to anyone else!!”
Scaling and root planing, often termed as “deep cleaning”, is a dental procedure intended to treat and prevent gum diseases, especially when they advance to a point where regular cleaning will no longer suffice. Here’s a more in-depth look:
Scaling: This involves removing dental tartar from the surfaces of the teeth.
Root Planing: This part of the procedure involves cleaning the roots of your teeth, helping to smooth the root surfaces and remove any infectious bacteria.
Why is Deep Cleaning Necessary?
Our mouths are teeming with bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, consistently form a sticky, colorless substance on teeth called "plaque". Regular brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque. However, plaque that is not removed hardens and forms "tartar" that brushing doesn't clean. Only a professional dental cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.
When tartar accumulates below the gum line, the risk of gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis increases. These conditions can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. If left untreated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. Eventually, teeth may become loose and have to be removed.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Stops Disease Progression: The primary purpose of scaling and root planing is to halt the progression of periodontal disease.
Tooth Protection: By addressing gum disease, this procedure also protects against tooth loss.
Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath is often a sign of progressing periodontal disease. A deep cleaning can help alleviate this issue.
Aesthetic Benefits: Removing tartar and plaque makes for a brighter, healthier smile.
Improved Health: Studies suggest a connection between periodontal disease and other health issues like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. By maintaining good oral health, you're also contributing to your overall well-being.
The Procedure: What to Expect
“Very friendly and kind staff work there. I’m happy with all services I received . thank you!!”
At Blauer Family Dental, your comfort is our top priority. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect during the procedure:
Assessment: Our dental hygienist will begin by examining your gums to determine the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.
Scaling: Using specialized tools, the dental professional will then begin the scaling process, gently removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces.
Root Planing: This is where the roots of the teeth are cleaned, ensuring they're free from bacteria.
Aftercare Instructions: Once the procedure is complete, you’ll receive instructions on aftercare to ensure optimal healing and minimal discomfort.
Recovery and Aftercare
Post-procedure, you might experience some sensitivity and mild discomfort, which typically dissipates in a few days. It's essential to follow all aftercare instructions provided by our team. This might include:
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the gums.
Rinsing with a prescribed or over-the-counter mouthwash to combat potential infections.
Avoiding certain foods that can cause discomfort or harm the treated areas.
Conclusion
At Blauer Family Dental in Spearfish, SD, our commitment is to provide our patients with the best care, ensuring they maintain a bright and healthy smile for a lifetime. Scaling and root planing is just one of the many services we offer in pursuit of this commitment. With our experienced team and state-of-the-art equipment, we aim to make your visit as comfortable and beneficial as possible.
If you think you might benefit from a deep cleaning, or if you have any concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. A journey to a healthier smile begins with a single step.