Scaling and Root Planing in New York, NY

If you have developed symptoms of gum (periodontal) disease, a regular cleaning might not be sufficient enough. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is typically treated with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a simple procedure performed by board-certified periodontist Dr. Kevin Loshak to help eliminate periodontal disease by removing built-up plaque and tartar from the gumline. Using special tools, an SRP treatment at SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry cleans under the gumline, then smoothes the teeth to prevent future buildup. If you are concerned about your gums, learn more about SRP at SmilesNY in New York, NY.

During your dental exam, Dr. Loshak will assess the depth of your gum pockets. If the pockets, also known as sulcus, are greater than three millimeters, a scaling and root planing treatment may be recommended. SRP can help to reduce the size of your gum pockets so plaque and bacteria cannot collect in this area, which leads to the very first stage of gum disease (gingivitis). Some of the early symptoms of periodontal disease are loose teeth, as well as gums that are are tender, swollen, bleed easily, appear red, or have begun to recede. If periodontal disease is diagnosed at the onset, one or more SRP therapies can improve symptoms; however, if gum disease has progressed to later stages (periodontitis or advanced periodontitis), then you may require more extensive therapies.

Scaling and root planing is a deep periodontal cleaning that can be carried out in our office with local anesthesia to numb the areas being treated. We may also recommend one of our sedation dentistry techniques if you feel stressed about having this procedure. Dr. Loshak will use a scaling instrument to clean out built-up plaque and tartar in your gum pockets. Dr. Loshak will then smooth or plane the outside of the tooth to reduce the number of areas where plaque and tartar can become trapped to prevent future buildup.

After your SRP treatment, you may have increased gum and tooth sensitivity, as well as some numbness from the local anesthetic. Dr. Loshak may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate any remaining bacteria from your gums. You should adhere to a good oral care routine at home, including proper brushing and flossing, to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. You also ought to schedule annual dental exams so that the health of your gums and teeth can be assessed, plus bi-annual appointments to have your mouth professionally cleaned. Depending on the original condition of your gums and your home care after an SRP treatment, you may need several more SRP treatments to completely restore your gums.

Scaling and root planing is a common procedure for the treatment of gum disease that is generally covered in part by dental insurance. Our team can contact your carrier to find out your coverage and personal costs. If you do not have dental insurance, SmilesNY accepts numerous payment methods, including medical financing that can be explained during your consultation.

Do I need to get scaling and root planing?

Patients who have periodontal disease or are at risk of developing periodontal disease are ideal candidates for a scaling and root planing treatment. During your consultation with Dr. Loshak, he will examine your teeth and gums to determine if SRP is right for you.

Is a scaling and root planing treatment painful?

No, it isn't. Before he begins, Dr. Loshak will completely numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic so you won't feel any pain during the procedure. Dr. Loshak also offers sedation options to further enhance your comfort. During the recovery phase, some patients may experience mild soreness or tenderness and tooth sensitivity, but it is typically short-lived and easily controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers (always ask your doctor first).

How long does a scaling and root planing procedure usually take?

How long a scaling and root planing procedure takes depends on the condition of your gums and teeth. Most procedures are finished in about 60 – 90 minutes. Some patients may require multiple visits.

Does scaling and root planing work?

Scaling and root planing is the gold standard treatment for chronic periodontal disease, able to effectively reduce gum inflammation and sensitivity and has been shown to decrease by up to .5 mm the pocket gaps between the teeth and gums.

Periodontal disease can become painful and dangerous to your health, so if you are experiencing symptoms, then please schedule an exam with Dr. Loshak at our office in New York, NY. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is normally treated with a simple scaling and root planing treatment at SmilesNY. Please contact us to schedule an appointment or to get more details.