Periodontal Care Bend, OR
Periodontal disease has been connected to various health conditions like stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. The same inflammation responsible for causing problems in the mouth is likely to find its way into the bloodstream, where it travels to reach other parts of the body. While in the body, it can cause serious health issues. Gum disease has been linked to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease, and problems with pregnancy among other health issues. Periodontal disease has also been linked to osteoporosis, a condition that can lead to serious injuries if you happen to fall.
Improving Gum Health: Understanding Scaling and Root Planing
As stated, gum disease can be a serious problem. At Cascadia Family Dental we perform routine scaling and root planing for our patients that have gum disease. Scaling and root planing begins with a comprehensive oral health assessment by the dentist to evaluate your gum condition and severity of gum disease.
Following this assessment, anesthesia or local anesthetic is administered for patient comfort. The dentist then meticulously removes plaque and tartar using specialized instruments, followed by smoothing out root surfaces to eliminate bacterial toxins and promote healing. Thorough post-treatment care instructions are provided to support optimal healing and long-term oral health.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing offer several advantages for gum health improvement. They effectively remove plaque and tartar, reducing harmful bacteria and lowering the risk of gum inflammation and infection. This procedure can halt gum disease progression by eliminating infection sources and promoting gum healing, preventing severe issues like gum recession and tooth loss. Addressing gum disease can potentially improve overall health by reducing the risk of systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, scaling and root planing can enhance the success of other dental treatments such as implants and crowns.
Recovery and Aftercare
After scaling and root planing, proper recovery and aftercare are vital. Patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, which can be managed with over-the-counter medications and soft foods. Good oral hygiene practices, including gentle brushing and flossing, should be maintained to prevent gum irritation. Follow-up appointments allow the dentist to monitor healing and provide any necessary recommendations or adjustments.
Potential Risks and Complications
While generally safe, scaling and root planing may entail risks such as temporary tooth sensitivity and gum recession if performed aggressively. Bacterial infection and disease recurrence are also possible if proper sterilization procedures are not followed, or if oral hygiene is neglected post-treatment. Patients with underlying health conditions may be at higher risk of complications and should consult their dentist accordingly.
Dental Consequences of Periodontal Disease
If patients are diagnosed with periodontal disease, the unfortunate truth is this is a lifelong sentence of dealing with unnecessary pain and suffering as well as additional procedures for treatment. Any patient recently diagnosed, or who might be in need of an evaluation, should come in to see us. We can provide an examination and treatment recommendation.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule a comprehensive dental examination and discuss your treatment options, contact a reputable dental practice like Cascadia Family Dental today at (541) 848-5139. Your journey to improved gum health starts here. Scaling and root planing are essential procedures for treating gum disease, restoring oral health, and treating gum disease. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with us so we can assess your gum health. We can be reached by phone at (541) 848-5139.