Gingivitis is a progressive disease that, if left untreated, can lead to significant damage to your teeth and gums. The term “gingivitis” might sound alarming, but the treatment is straightforward and can be effectively managed right in your dentist’s office.
book onlinePlaque and tartar on your teeth create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, which in turn causes gum inflammation and bleeding. You might notice these symptoms when brushing your teeth or sometimes while eating, indicating the early stages of gingivitis. Fortunately, gingivitis can be easily addressed through professional scaling and polishing by your hygienist. If neglected, however, the condition can advance, requiring more intensive treatment like root planing.
The difference between scaling and root planing is clear: scaling involves removing tartar from the surface of the teeth, while root planing smooths the root surfaces and removes any infected tooth structure.
Both scaling and root planing are non-surgical procedures typically performed without anesthesia in your dentist’s office. While the procedures are generally painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may require numbing for additional comfort. Deep scaling and root planing are usually divided into sections of the mouth per appointment to ensure proper healing and to keep each visit efficient.