Undergoing regular dental checkups and periodic teeth cleaning are some of the ways you can prevent a serious gum infection and, in severe cases, tooth loss. To remove stubborn plaque and tartar on the teeth’s surface, however, you will need dental scaling. This procedure is considered more extensive than the usual oral prophylaxis. Below are some of the things you need to know about it.

What Happens During Dental Scaling?

Scaling, along with root planing, is a deep-cleaning, nonsurgical procedure to scrape away plaque, tartar, and biofilm from the surface of the teeth and below the gum line. It is the recommended treatment for periodontitis, which destroys soft tissue and weakens the bone that supports your teeth. Your dentist will use manual hand or ultrasonic instruments, or sometimes both, to chip off hard buildups that are otherwise difficult to remove with regular teeth cleaning. If your gums are sensitive, the dentist can administer local anesthesia to help minimize discomfort.     

Why It Matters

When periodontitis is left untreated, it can cause tooth loss, as gum tissues deteriorate and weaken. This disease causes discomfort, as gums feel tender when touched and bleed easily. In critical cases, necrosis sets in and leads to further complications. With dental scaling, bacterial toxins and tartar deposits are eliminated to prevent the progression of the disease. Some researches even indicate the possibility of plaque bacteria affecting other parts of your body, such as the heart and lungs.

How to Know if You Need Scaling

Pay particular attention to symptoms of periodontal disease, including swollen, painful gums, the presence of pus, and bleeding. If you notice bad breath or experience painful chewing as well, then you might need to visit your dentist right away. The chances of reversing the damage from gum disease are higher the sooner you seek professional help. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend two or more visits to treat it.

For pain-free dental scaling and teeth cleaning, turn to the dentistry team at J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. Residents throughout Anchorage, AK, rely on Dr. McBratney and his 33 years of experience in treating periodontitis and other periodontal diseases. They offer excellent dental services, from general to cosmetic dentistry, even on Saturdays. Call (907) 562-3323 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to view patient resources.