Scaling & Root Planing - Waterford, CT

Stop Gum Disease from Harming Your Smile

How Gum Infection Happens

Have you noticed that your gums seem to bleed when you floss and brush, or that they seem red and puffy? You may be experiencing symptoms of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. This progressive condition begins when plaque is left to harden into calculus on the teeth at and below the gumline. A release of bacteria infect the gum tissues and cause them to pull away, increasing the pocket depth around teeth where more bacteria becomes trapped. Plaque and calculus within these deep pockets can’t be reached during at-home brushing and flossing. At this stage, we can help you stop gum disease from harming your smile’s health and beauty. Our dentists are experienced in diagnosing and treating gum disease at the first signs of gingivitis before oral structures have been damaged. With a procedure called scaling and root planing in Waterford, CT, we can ensure the health of your smile!

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Tender, swollen gums
Bright red gums
Bleeding gums
Receding gums
Sensitive teeth
Bad breath
Loose teeth

Targeted Treatment for Infection

The purpose of scaling and root planing is to eliminate the bacteria and infection from the periodontal pockets and tissues. This non-surgical procedure may require several appointments to ensure your gum tissues are restored to proper health. First, we use a dental scaler to scrape away the plaque and calculus buildup on the teeth at and below the gumline. This rids the area of buildup that would otherwise produce bacteria and cause more infection. Next, we complete a process called root planing that smooths the surface of the teeth. Without these rough surfaces, bacteria are less likely to accumulate. This also encourages healthy gum tissues to reattach and form a tight seal around the teeth, reducing the pocket depth. We may also administer antimicrobial agents or prescribe antibiotics to help treat the infection. You’ll need to return to our office regularly for periodontal maintenance every 3-4 months so we can monitor the health of your gums and smile.

Keeping Gums Healthy Long-Term

Periodontal maintenance is a “deep” cleaning of your teeth similar to scaling and root planing. This cleaning removes any calculus buildup on the periodontal pockets and allows us to check for bleeding or infection with the gum tissues. Keeping your smile healthy long-term also relies on you! Following a proper at-home hygiene routine and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can further ensure that your gum disease does not progress and harm your smile. Together, you and our dentists can help you maintain healthy gums and a functional, attractive smile!

See symptoms of gingivitis?

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