Scaling and Root Planing in Murfreesboro, TN

If you've developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate enough. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is usually corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a nonsurgical procedure that is performed to help eliminate gum disease by removing built-up tartar and plaque from below the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment at Implant & General Dentistry cleans out the gum pockets, then smoothes the surface of your teeth to avoid further buildup. If you're worried about your gums, find out more about scaling and root planing at Implant & General Dentistry in Murfreesboro, TN. Family dentist Dr. Andrew Flipse can also examine your smile to ensure there aren't any other health concerns that need attention. 

At your dental examination, Dr. Flipse will check how deep your gum pockets are. In the event your gum pockets, also called sulcus, are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing therapy may be recommended. SRP helps to decrease the size of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the first phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). A number of the early signs of gum disease are chronic bad breath, loose teeth, in addition to gums that are swollen, tender, bleed easily, look red, or are receding. When gum disease is caught early, one or more scaling and root planing treatments can reverse signs, but when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you might need more comprehensive treatments.

SRP is a deep cleaning that may be performed in our office using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being addressed. We might also suggest sedation methods if you are feeling anxious about having SRP. We will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. We will subsequently plane or smooth the exterior of the enamel to decrease the number of areas where tartar and plaque may get caught to avoid future problems.

Following your SRP therapy, you might experience greater tooth and gum sensitivity, in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Flipse can write a prescription for antibiotics that will help remove any residual bacteria from the gums. You should follow a good oral hygiene regimen in your home, such as daily flossing and brushing, to keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. You should also schedule yearly dental examinations so Dr. Flipse can evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, as well as bi-annual visits to get your teeth cleaned. Based upon the initial state of your mouth and your own home care following an SRP therapy, you might need more scaling and root planing procedures to fully restore your oral health.

SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease that's usually paid for in part by dental insurance. We will get in touch with your provider to determine your policy and individual expenses. If you don't have dental insurance, then Implant & General Dentistry takes many payments, including low-interest financing, which may be discussed in your appointment.

Gum disease may become dangerous and painful for your health so if you're having symptoms, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Flipse at our office in Murfreesboro, TN. The first stage of periodontal disease (gingivitis) is usually corrected using a very simple SRP process at Implant & General Dentistry. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more details.