Root Scaling and Planing | Keep Your Teeth Roswell, GA

Roswell Root Scaling and Planing

If you have gum disease, you may need a root scaling and planing procedure to help get rid of it. This is a serious condition that can lead to eventual bone and tooth loss. We will go through every treatment we can to prevent gum disease and other painful conditions. At Marietta Roswell Dental Care, we recommend that you visit our dental office twice per year so we can do just that. We want to remove plaque and tartar before they can cause gum disease, gum recession, and the need for this procedure. However, if you do need a root scaling and planing procedure, we can help and we can ensure that you are as comfortable as possible during it.

Roswell Root Scaling and Planing FAQ

What is periodontal scaling and root planing?

In this procedure, the plaque and tartar underneath the gum tissue is removed. This can be done using a metal dental tool, ultrasound energy, and lasers. A dentist will break up the plaque and tartar before scraping it out. If the roots have plaque buildup as well, the root planing procedure will scale them to remove the plaque and then smooth out any rough areas so the tooth can be both healthy and fully functional.

How long does root scaling and planing take?

In most cases, this procedure will need to be broken up into four appointments. This allows a dentist to separate your mouth into quadrants and clean each one of them individually. Since the process is very methodical, it takes longer than the standard teeth cleaning and your gums may experience some irritation and swelling. By only cleaning one area of the mouth at a time, the process is more manageable and the recovery time is reduced.

Will the dentist use anesthesia?

Yes. Your gums will be numbed before the root scaling and planing procedure starts. Some dentist may also use nitrous oxide or other forms of sedation to help relax you prior to getting started. When sedation is used, a dentist can sometimes complete more of the procedure in one sitting. Additionally, you may want to use a desensitizing toothpaste afterward in order to further numb the gums.

What are the risks involved the procedure?

There is a risk of developing an infection from this procedure. You can help reduce the risk by rinsing with warm saltwater throughout the day and keeping your teeth clean. We may also prescribe you an antibiotic rinse to use. However, the biggest risk comes from not having the procedure completed at all. That can lead to more severe gum disease, gum recession, and even tooth loss

Check out what others are saying about our root scaling services on Yelp: Root Scaling and Planing Roswell.

What should I expect during and after root scaling and planing?

During the procedure, you can expect for your gums to be numbed and for your teeth to be very slowly and methodically cleaned. Very often, an ultrasound is used to help break up the plaque and tartar before a dental tool scrapes it off of the tooth. Some dentist use lasers to complete the entire procedure. Since your gums will be numb, you will feel some pressure but should not feel any direct pain or discomfort. However, afterward, your gums will be sore, they will swell, and may ache in general. You can help control this with ibuprofen and ice packs if necessary. Typically, the worst part is over within four hours, so you may just want to go home and sleep. In the rare case your jaw feels sore and stiff, you can place a warm compress on it.

For several days to a week or more, you may experience some sensitivity when eating, especially if you are eating anything sweet. One way to address this is to use something soft to clean the area and then place a desensitizing toothpaste on a Q-tip so it can be gently applied to the area around your gums.

There will be some bleeding when you brush your teeth, but this should only last for a day or two. Just remember to be gentle when brushing around your gums.

Are there any warning signs to watch for after the procedure?

Yes. If your gums are bleeding excessively, you develop a hard boil (bump) inside your mouth, or the irritation persists for more than two weeks, you should schedule an immediate follow-up appointment.

Can I eat like normal after a root scaling and planing procedure?

No. We recommend that you avoid anything hot for two days and that you do not eat anything crunchy like nuts or chips for four days. This is to ensure that your gums do not experience any further irritation. Simultaneously, your gums may be sensitive to sugar, so avoid any candy or treats for several days. If you have a sweet tooth, try a sugar-free popsicle instead.

What happens to my gums after they heal from the procedure?

Your gums should begin to return to normal, and there should be no restrictions long term regarding what you can eat. By removing the plaque and tartar, your gums should begin to return to good health. This means that the swelling you have been experiencing will be reduced, they should return to a healthy pink color, and they will no longer be irritated in general. As long as the procedure works as it should, you will not need more invasive gum procedures. However, if you have waited a long time and your gums have already started to recede, this may not be enough. You may also require a future gum grafting procedure.

Will I need follow-up procedures?

At Marietta Roswell Dental Care, we enjoy discussing oral health. If you have questions about your gums or a root scaling and planning procedure, call (770) 538-1148 and schedule an appointment with our Roswell, GA dental office.

Helpful Related Links

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American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2015

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American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2015

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WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2015

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Marietta Roswell Dental Care was established in 1978

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We serve patients from the following counties: Fulton County

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We serve patients from the following cities: Roswell, Mountain Park, Alpharetta, Dunwoody, & Sandy Springs

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What Our Happy

Patients are Saying

Igwele Dafe

2023-04-04

The staffs are nice and welcoming also I do recommend them.Thanks

Rob Schoenborn

2023-03-22

Our family has been going to Dr. Kataria for many years, and she has always provided the best service. All the staff are friendly. I really appreciate not being up sold on unnecessary services like other dentists we have used. She always provides the reason things need to be done in a friendly and understandable manner.

Sush Shetty

2023-03-21

Dr.K is easily one of the best dentists around.she takes time to evaluate, try’s different ways to get the right diagnoses. In the process helping the patient understand why she’s doing it. Very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Her team is equally efficient and compassionate. This practice is a pleasure to be at. Thank you.

Sandro Dominguez

2023-03-20

Professional, great service.

Devang Shah

2023-03-15

Great staff, office, and dentist. Had a painless easy visit. From the front staff to the assistant, everyone is so comforting and caring. Myself being a dentist would not resist on mentioning that Dr K is very gentle and has a very high tech office. Her dentist skills makes her my favorite dentist. Highly recommend without reservations. Thank you Marietta - Roswell Dental care.

John Brooks

2023-03-09

The Marietta Roswell dental team is excellent and will take care of your dental needs. The office is comfortable and all furnishings/equipment are up to-date. I highly recommend this office for your dental needs.

Jenny B

2023-03-06

Awesome experience! Very excited to have found this practice.

Stephen Davalt

2023-02-27

Awesome customer service, clean and comfortable environment, professional, timely and caring atmosphere. Loved the background music also. Very professional. I travel 45 miles for this service with absolute no regrets! Been doing so for years and will continue! I Recommend this Dental Clinic with high regards!!

Gloria Mongole

2023-02-21

Everyone in this office is amazing. Thorough, professional. When you are there, you know they care!

Victor Ndonnang

2023-02-16

I found this Dental Care online and chose it because of the reviews and proximity. I can confirm that the reviews/rating are real and genuine. My first visit was amazing from booking my appointment to getting the service. Very professional staff and great use of technology to make life easier. My hygienist, Michelle did was great. Painless cleaning. I look forward to my next visit.

Nalini Kataria

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9410 Willeo Rd Ste A Roswell, GA, US 30075

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