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Dentist in Las Vegas Explains Scaling and Root Planing

by | Jan 5, 2024 | General Dentistry

Our overall health is key to a healthy and long life. But good overall health is hard to accomplish if our oral health is lacking. One way to accomplish better oral health is through general dentistry treatments, like scaling and root planing. If you haven’t heard of this unique treatment, don’t fret. Our dentist in Las Vegas, NV, is here to explain it all!

Are you looking for better dentistry in Northwest Las Vegas? Look no further than Miracle Dental. Our team of trusted professionals has decades of experience, allowing us to transform hundreds of smiles yearly. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ann Pham or Dr. Halan Tran by dialing (702) 456-0056 now!

Scaling and root planing offer a deeper clean than regular prophylaxis, thereby playing a significant role in preventing and treating gum diseases. In today’s blog, our dentist in Las Vegas is here to explain how scaling and root planing go beyond a regular dental cleaning.

Understanding Scaling and Root Planing

Has a dentist in Las Vegas recently told you that you need a ‘deep clean?’ If so, they may be referring to scaling and root planing. 

This procedure is a non-surgical dental treatment that dentists use to help treat gum disease (which approximately 90% of the world population has). Scaling and root planing aim to eliminate and prevent tooth-destroying plaque and tartar buildup on teeth, which calms and impedes the inflammation and infection associated with gum disease.

Scaling

The surface of teeth often develops a sticky, film-like substance (plaque) that extends below the gum line. While regular dental cleanings focus on the visible portions of the teeth, scaling delves deeper into the pockets around the teeth where plaque and tartar can accumulate

Root Planing

On the other hand, root planing is the process of smoothing the hidden part of teeth that lies just below the gumline

When gum disease progresses, the bacteria-laden plaque and tartar can cause the gums to lift away from teeth, which forms tiny pockets around the roots of teeth. These pockets create a conducive environment for further bacterial growth, leading to more severe gum issues. 

Root planing helps to remove bacterial toxins and smooth out rough spots on the tooth roots, making it more challenging for bacteria to reattach and allowing pockets to close and heal.

The Procedure

Our dentist in Las Vegas can perform scaling and root planing over multiple sessions or in a single session, depending on the severity.

To enhance patient comfort, our dentist in Las Vegas can administer local anesthesia, as the procedure involves working beneath the gumline. The thoroughness of scaling and root planing distinguishes it from regular dental cleanings, providing a comprehensive solution for managing gum disease.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

There are plenty of benefits of scaling and root planing, but a few perks stand out, such as:

  • Halting Disease Progression: Scaling and root planing effectively halt the progression of gum diseases by removing the source of infection and promoting healing.
  • Preventing Tooth Loss: By addressing gum diseases in their early stages, scaling and root planing help prevent tooth loss, a common consequence of advanced periodontitis.
  • Improving Oral Health: The procedure contributes to overall oral health, reducing the risk of systemic health issues associated with untreated gum diseases.

Gentle Scaling and Root Planing with a Dentist in Las Vegas, NV

Scaling and root planing stand as essential tools in the fight against gum diseases, offering a proactive approach to oral health. If you’d like to see if you could benefit from this procedure, contact Miracle Dental today. You can request an appointment online or at (702) 456-0056.