Scaling and Root Planing

Gum disease is a serious condition that affects the health of your gums and the underlying bone structure supporting your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other complications that compromise oral health. One of the most effective ways to treat gum disease, especially in its early stages, is through a procedure known as scaling and root planing in Sterling, IL. This non-surgical procedure, performed by our experienced dentist in Sterling, IL, is designed to remove harmful plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline, allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the tooth surfaces.

Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a critical step in maintaining optimal gum health and preventing the progression of periodontal disease. This guide will explore the importance of scaling and root planing, the procedure itself, and how it can improve oral health. We'll also discuss the potential need for surgical interventions, such as surgical extractions, ridge augmentation, and bone grafting, in cases where gum disease has caused extensive damage.

Understanding Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a two-step process designed to treat periodontal (gum) disease, improve gum health, and support bone structure. 

This deep cleaning process is highly effective in managing mild to moderate cases of gum disease, helping to halt the progression of the disease and restore oral health. To protect your gums and maintain your oral health, contact us at Dental Care of Sterling for precision scaling and root planing. 

When Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?

Scaling and root planing is recommended for patients who are showing signs of gum disease, such as:

• Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing are often an early sign of gum disease.
• Swollen or Red Gums: Inflammation and redness of the gums indicate an infection that needs to be addressed.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by bacteria buildup in periodontal pockets.
• Loose Teeth: As gum disease progresses, the gums recede, and the teeth can become loose due to loss of supporting bone structure.
• Deep Periodontal Pockets: If the spaces between your teeth and gums become too deep, they can trap bacteria and debris, worsening the infection.

By addressing these symptoms early with scaling and root planing in Sterling, IL, our dentist can help you avoid more invasive treatments in the future.

Surgical Extractions

Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases where gum disease has progressed significantly and caused severe damage. One such procedure is surgical extraction, which involves removing a tooth that cannot be saved due to extensive decay, infection, or bone loss. Surgical extractions are typically required for teeth that have been impacted, broken, or lost too much supporting bone due to advanced gum disease.

Our dentist in Sterling, IL, performs surgical extractions using local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort. The procedure may involve making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and, in some cases, removing the tooth in pieces to minimize trauma to the surrounding bone.

While surgical extractions are not always necessary, they can be essential for treating advanced gum disease and preventing further complications.

Ridge Augmentation

Following a tooth extraction, especially in cases of gum disease, the bone surrounding the tooth socket may deteriorate. This bone loss can affect the appearance of your jawline and complicate future restorative treatments, such as dental implants. Ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure that helps restore the natural contours of the jaw by rebuilding the bone in areas where it has been lost.

During a ridge augmentation procedure, our dentist in Sterling, IL, places bone graft material in the area where the bone has deteriorated. This encourages new bone growth and helps maintain the jaw's structure. Ridge augmentation is particularly important for patients considering dental implants, as it ensures enough bone to support the implant.

In cases of advanced gum disease, ridge augmentation can be a crucial step in restoring the mouth and jaw's function and aesthetics.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is another surgical procedure often necessary for patients with severe gum disease. When gum disease causes significant bone loss, bone grafting can help regenerate lost bone and provide a stable foundation for future dental work, such as implants or bridges.

There are several bone graft options, including autografts (using the patient's bone), allografts (using donor bone), and synthetic bone grafts. Our dentist in Sterling, IL, can recommend the best type of graft based on the patient's needs.

Bone grafting is essential for patients with advanced gum disease because it helps restore the jawbone's structural integrity, ensuring the success of future restorative procedures.

The Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing provide numerous benefits for patients suffering from gum disease:

• Prevents Disease Progression: By removing harmful bacteria and smoothing root surfaces, scaling and root planing helps stop gum disease from worsening.
• Reduces Inflammation: This procedure can significantly reduce gum inflammation and promote healing.
• Protects Supporting Structures: Scaling and root planing helps protect the bone and connective tissues that support your teeth, preventing tooth loss.
• Improves Oral Hygiene: After scaling and root planing, patients can maintain their improved gum health with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

Conclusion

Scaling and root planing is crucial in treating gum disease and maintaining healthy gums and teeth. For patients with more advanced cases of gum disease, additional surgical procedures such as surgical extractions, ridge augmentation, and bone grafting may be necessary to fully restore oral health.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have concerns about your gum health, it's important to seek the expertise of our dentist in Sterling, IL. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend the appropriate treatment to ensure the long-term health of your teeth and gums. By addressing gum disease early with scaling and root planing in Sterling, IL, you can prevent more invasive procedures and enjoy a healthy, confident smile.

To schedule an appointment at Dental Care of Sterling, located at 2000 Locust St., Ste. B, Sterling IL 61081, call (815) 625-6842. You can also visit our official website to learn about the various services we provide.