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| Root
Planning and scaling is one of the most effective ways to treat gum
disease before it becomes severe. Root Planning and scaling cleans
between the gums and the teeth down to the roots. Your dentist may
need to use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and the roots of
your teeth. |
| Some
dentists will use an ultrasound tool for the Planning and scaling.
It is less uncomfortable than a standard scraping tool, but not
all dentists have this type of tool. |
| Your
dentist may place antibiotic fibers into the pockets between your
teeth and gums. The antibiotic will help speed healing and prevent
infection. The dentist will remove the fibers about 1 week after
the procedure. |
What To Expect After Treatment
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| If
anesthesia is used, your lips and gums may remain numb for a few
hours. Planning and scaling causes little or no discomfort.
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| Root
Planning and scaling is done when gums have either started to pull
away from the teeth or the roots of the teeth have hard mineral
deposits (tartar) on them.
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| If
you maintain good dental care after the procedure, the progression
of gum disease should stop, and your gums will heal and become firm
and pink again.
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| Root
planning and scaling can introduce harmful bacteria into the bloodstream.
Gum tissue is also at risk of infection. You may need to take antibiotics
before and after surgery if you have a condition that puts you at
high risk for developing a severe infection, such as:
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#
Damaged or artificial heart valves.
# A congenital heart defect.
# An impaired
immune system.
# Liver disease (cirrhosis).
# An artificial joint, such as a hip replacement.
# A history of bacterial endocarditis.
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Root
planning and scaling is a simple procedure that can be very effective
in stopping gum disease.
Brush and floss regularly afterward. Without proper dental care,
your gum disease may progress.
To promote healing, stop all use of tobacco. It decreases your ability
to fight infection of your gums and delays healing. For more information,
see the topic Quitting Tobacco Use. |
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