DENTIST NEAR ME REDLANDS CA

Scaling and Root Planing by the Best Dentist in Redlands, CA

Redlands, CA dentist, Dr. Steve Tatevossian, offers scaling and root planing for patients who require periodontal cleaning. Generally, these patients are in the early stages of gum disease (known as gingivitis) where bacteria and plaque build up along the gumline, causing the gums to become inflamed and irritated. Symptoms include bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, a receding gumline, and trouble chewing certain foods.
Scaling and root planing restores the health of the mouth and gums by gently deep cleaning just below the gumline. Sometimes an antibiotic is given before or after the procedure. After this procedure, which may need to be performed several times, the gums and teeth will appear and feel healthier and the symptoms of periodontal disease will slowly go away.

What to Expect?

In most cases, local anesthesia will be given prior to the procedure to help minimize discomfort. For patients who have anxiety during dental treatments, sedation may also be provided. A manual scraping will first be performed, which pulls the gumline back slightly so that all areas of the gum pocket can be reached. At this time, plaque and tartar will be scraped and removed.
An ultrasonic cleaner is also used to assist with this deep cleaning process. The second step of this procedure involves the planing process, which smoothens the enamel of the tooth. After the procedure is completed, the gums will heal and naturally reattach to the tooth root. Some patients will require this procedure more than once to ensure the infection areas have been fully treated.

After Care

Inflammation and soreness are common after a scaling and root planing procedure. Soft foods should be incorporated for a few hours to allow the gums to settle and heal. After a few days, the gums will appear and feel normal.
Dr. Tatevossian usually likes to see his patients back within 3 months to either perform the procedure again or check the status of the gums. Patients should also discuss proper techniques for good oral healthcare, including consistent brushing and flossing so they can establish a good home care routine.
Pricing

Our office will confirm benefits prior to treatment. However, since scaling and root planing is part of periodontal treatments, which is a medically necessary procedure, dental insurance usually covers all or a portion of the treatment.