How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?

It is generally recommended to have a dental exam and cleaning every six months. Regular six-month visits allow the dentist to monitor your oral health closely, catch any potential issues early on, and perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Can dental cleanings whiten teeth?

Dental cleanings can help to improve the appearance of your teeth and may make them appear whiter. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth. These stains are often caused by substances like coffee, tea, tobacco, and certain foods.

Can children benefit from dental exams and cleanings?

Absolutely! Dental exams and cleanings are essential for children's oral health. Regular visits to the dentist from an early age can help establish good oral hygiene habits and detect any dental issues early on. Children may be more prone to cavities, so professional cleanings can effectively remove plaque and protect their developing teeth.

Are dental exams and cleanings covered by dental insurance?

In many cases, dental exams and cleanings are covered by dental insurance plans. Most dental insurance policies prioritize preventive care as a way to reduce the need for more extensive and costly treatments. However, coverage can vary depending on your insurance provider and plan. It's essential to review your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage for dental exams and cleanings.

Scaling & Root Planing In Willoughby Hills, OH

Reclaiming Your Smile with Scaling & Root Planing

When it comes to maintaining your oral health, sometimes brushing and flossing aren’t enough. If your gums are swollen, tender, or bleeding, or you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, scaling and root planing may be the treatment you need. This deep cleaning procedure goes beyond routine dental cleanings to tackle built-up plaque and tartar below the gum line, helping restore your gums and teeth to good health.

At Smile Brighter, our Willoughby Hills, OH, dentist, Dr. Phillip Wallace, offers scaling and root planing to patients in the area and nearby communities, including Eastlake, Wickliffe, and Mentor, OH. If you’re in need of scaling and root planing services, speak to a dental professional today by calling (440) 210-0999.

What Is Scaling & Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning dental procedure designed to treat gum disease and prevent it from worsening. Unlike a routine cleaning, this treatment focuses on removing plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line, where regular brushing and flossing cannot reach.

Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling and root planing has many advantages, including:

Stops gum disease in its tracks
Prevents tooth loss
Improves breath and oral hygiene
Encourages gum tissue regeneration
Supports overall health (reducing risks of heart disease and diabetes linked to gum disease)

Why Scaling & Root Planing Is Essential for Gum Health

Gum disease starts subtly but can lead to serious problems like tooth loss if left untreated. Scaling and root planing is a two-step process that effectively targets gum disease:

Scaling: This involves removing hardened plaque and tartar (calculus) from below the gumline. This step prevents bacteria from further damaging your gums and teeth.
Root Planing: After scaling, your dentist smooths out the tooth roots. This makes it harder for bacteria to reattach and helps your gums heal and reattach to your teeth.

Who Needs Scaling & Root Planing?

This treatment is typically recommended for people showing signs of periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease. Common symptoms include:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Persistent bad breath
Receding gums
Loose teeth

If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Wallace to explore your treatment options and keep your gums healthy.

The Scaling & Root Planing Process

Initial Examination: Dr. Wallace will thoroughly examine your gums and may take X-rays to assess the severity of the gum disease.
Local Anesthesia: The area being treated is numbed to ensure your comfort.
Scaling and Planing: Using specialized tools, the plaque and tartar are removed, and your tooth roots are smoothed.
Follow-Up Care: After the procedure, your gums may feel tender, but they will begin to heal and reattach to the teeth over time.

Caring for Your Gums After Treatment

Post-treatment care is vital for long-term success. Dr. Wallace will provide personalized tips, but general guidelines include:

Maintaining a strict oral hygiene routine
Using any prescribed mouth rinses
Scheduling regular follow-ups at Smile Brighter
Avoiding smoking, which can slow healing

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the scaling and root planing procedure is generally painless. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic, or another form of dental sedation depending on your needs, to numb the area and minimize any discomfort.

The duration of the procedure depends on the condition of your oral health, but it usually takes one to two hours and multiple sessions. Your dentist will examine the condition of your oral health and will provide an estimated timeline. Depending on the progression of your periodontal disease, it may take more than one scaling and root planing appointment to reverse its effects.

Scaling and root planing can help to manage periodontal disease, but it’s not a cure. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and keep up with regular dental visits to reduce the risk of periodontal disease recurrence.

Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of scaling and root planing, but it’s best to check with your provider to confirm your coverage. If the coverage isn’t enough, ask your dentist if their office provides special discounts or financing options.

Take Control of Your Gum Health Today

Scaling and root planing is a transformative treatment for gum disease, helping you reclaim your oral health and confidence. If you’re in Willoughby Hills, Eastlake, Wickliffe, Mentor, OH, or surrounding communities, don’t wait to address signs of gum disease. Schedule an appointment at Smile Brighter today by calling (440) 210-0999 to take the first step toward a healthier smile.