Eliminate Gum Disease with Scaling and Root Planing Treatment

Do your gums feel tender while brushing? Does flossing make your gums bleed? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you may require scaling and root planing for the treatment of gum disease. Dr. Chan Wilkhu, Dr. Don Cork, and Dr. Steven Schmid perform non-surgical periodontal treatments at their dental office in Merritt Island, FL. Together, these skilled dentists have several decades of experience. Our dentists regularly participate in continuing education programs to ensure they are proficient in the most recent and least invasive dental treatments and services.​ 

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Gum disease is caused by the presence of plaque and bacteria on your teeth and gums. As bacteria grow, gum tissue can become inflamed. Over time, inflamed and swollen gums can recede from the teeth, eventually resulting in tooth loss.

During your dental exam at our Merritt Island dental clinic, our doctors will assess the severity of your gum disease. This is typically done by conducting a close examination of your gums to look for symptoms of periodontitis. These symptoms include:

• Pain while biting
• Swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth

Our doctors can use intraoral cameras to educate you on the severity of your periodontitis. Mild, moderate, and severe levels of gum disease can often be effectively treated through scaling and root planing. Before the treatment is performed, a topical anesthetic will be used to numb your gums.

Our dentists regularly participate in continuing education programs to ensure they are proficient in the most recent and least invasive treatments.​ 

Scaling involves the use of a special metal tool to remove plaque and tartar above and below your gum line. This technique can reach areas that brushing alone cannot. The second step involves smoothing the surface of your root to prevent the return of bacteria. This is called root planing. Root planing also helps your gum tissue reattach to your teeth.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is less invasive than surgery. Since it is a non-surgical treatment, scaling and root planing maintains a low side effect risk and no recovery time. Following your procedure, you can immediately return to work. Our doctors may advise that you undergo non-surgical periodontal treatments before recommending more invasive procedures. Laser dentistry is a common treatment for periodontal disease. Our doctors will examine your oral health needs before recommending laser dentistry.

How to Maintain Healthy Gums

We advise that patients brush twice a day and floss regularly. Twice-a-year dental cleanings are another way to prevent the onset or return of gum disease. If you have certain risk factors for gum disease, such as advanced age, tobacco use, genetics, or poor nutrition, you may need to attend more frequent dental visits. Following these tips can help keep your gums healthy:

• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Notify your dentist if you experience symptoms of gum disease
• Eliminate sugary foods and focus on a plant-based diet
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
• Use a soft bristle toothbrush
• Brush gently
• Rinse with a therapeutic mouthwash 

Enhance Your Gum Health Today

Periodontitis is one of the most common dental problems in the United States. Studies conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have found that nearly half of American adults have some form of gum disease. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have not had a dental cleaning in six months, contact our office online or call (321) 265-4426 to schedule your next visit.