Today, we’re diving into the world of dental care to talk about something called scaling and root planning. It might sound fancy, but don’t worry; we’ll break it down so it’s as easy to understand as brushing your teeth.
First Off, Let’s Talk About Why Your Teeth Are So Important
In addition to giving you a winning smile, they also assist you with eating well and speaking clearly. But just like anything else in your body, they need some TLC (that’s tender loving care) to stay healthy. Imagine your teeth are like a house, and the gums are the cosy carpet around them.
Sometimes, stuff like food particles and bacteria can sneak into your gums and cause trouble. That’s where scaling and root planning come to the rescue. So what are scaling and root planning? Let’s break it down one at a time.
Scaling
Scaling is like giving your teeth a deep cleaning. It’s when your friendly dentist or dental hygienist uses special tools to remove all the yucky stuff that’s built up on your teeth and below your gumline. It’s like sweeping away dirt and dust from your house to keep it spick-and-span.
Root Planning
Root planning is like smoothing out rough spots on the roots of your teeth. These rough spots can be a cosy hiding spot for bacteria, so by making them nice and smooth, it’s harder for those trouble-making germs to stick around and cause problems. At Nexus Dental, we also offer root canal therapy in SE Calgary to address deeper dental issues and ensure comprehensive oral health.
So, How Often Should You Get Scaling And Root Planning Done?
Well, the interval for scaling and root planning depends on a few things:
1. Your Oral Health
If you’re taking good care of your teeth by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly, you might only need scaling and root planing less often. But if you’re dealing with gum disease or other dental issues, your dentist might recommend more frequent cleanings.
2. Your Dentist’s Advice
Your dentist knows your teeth best. They’ll check how your gums are doing during your regular check-ups and let you know if scaling and root planning are needed. They suggest a schedule that works best for you, like every six months or once a year.
3. Your Lifestyle
Some things in life can make gum problems more likely, like smoking or certain medical conditions. If you smoke or have health issues that affect your gums, you might need scaling and root planing more often to keep your smile sparkling.
Next, What Happens During Scaling And Root Planning?
When you go in for scaling and root planning, here’s what you can expect:
First, your dentist near you will examine your teeth and gums to see if scaling and root planing are needed. They might take some X-rays to get a closer look at what’s going on beneath the surface.
Next comes the scaling part. Using special tools, they’ll carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially around the gumline and in those hard-to-reach places. It might feel a little weird, but don’t worry; it shouldn’t hurt.
After scaling, it’s time for root planning. It is where they smooth out any rough spots on the roots of your teeth to prevent bacteria from hanging out there. Again, it’s a bit like getting a dental massage for your roots.
Throughout the whole process, your dental hygienist will make sure you’re comfortable and answer any questions you might have. You will be finished and prepared to flash that spotless smile in no time.
Closing Thoughts
Scaling and root planing might sound like a mouthful, but it’s just a simple way to keep your teeth and gums in brilliant shape. Keep smiling, keep brushing, and don’t forget to floss; your teeth will thank you for it.
At Nexus Dental, we specialize in scaling and root planing, giving your smile the care it deserves. Our expert team of dentist in SE Calgary ensures a comfortable experience, leaving you with a sparkling, healthy grin.