Gingivitis is a generative disease that left untreated, will cause significant tooth and gum deterioration. Just the word gingivitis can strike panic in a patient’s mind. The reality is that the treatment is simple and performed right in your dentist’s office.
Plaque and calculus that remains on the teeth provides an environment, which allows bacteria to thrive and multiply. The bacteria cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed. This early, reversible stage of gum disease know as gingivitis is easily treated by having the hygienist scale and polish the teeth. If gingivitis is left untreated, the condition can progress and may result in the teeth requiring root planing. The difference between scaling and root planing is simple. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth surface Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces and removing the infected tooth/root structure.
As a non-surgical procedure, scaling is performed without any anesthesia, in the dentist’s office. While the procedure is usually painless, advanced stages of gum disease may make it necessary to numb the area for complete comfort. Deep scaling and root planing is usually broken down into one half of the mouth per appointment. This allows for comfortable aneasthesia and adequate healing time between appointments.