Periodontal Disease Treatment – Marana, AZ
Stopping the Harmful Effects of Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems faced by adults, estimated to impact one out of every two people by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry & Orthodontics, our team’s goal is to tackle the early signs of gum disease before it has an opportunity to progress into something more serious down the road. To learn more about some of the available options for periodontal disease treatment in Marana, AZ, read below.
Why Choose Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry & Orthodontics
for Periodontal Disease Treatment?
- In-House Financing Available
- Highly Experienced Dentist
- Laser Gum Disease Therapy Available
Use the Arrows to Explore Our Services
Scaling & Root Planing
Advanced cases of gum disease must be addressed with more intensive treatments, and scaling and root planing may be the best way to remove infectious material, prevent tooth loss, and restore your oral health. The friendly team at Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry and Orthodontics will do everything possible to ensure that you enjoy a comfortable treatment that delivers lasting results. Here’s a quick look at how scaling and root planing works, what it can treat, and how you can keep your healing process on track after the procedure.
Do You Need Scaling & Root Planing?
Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, typically shows itself through redness and inflammation, and it can usually be reversed with improved oral hygiene habits. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is the more advanced stage that must be treated by a qualified professional such as Dr. Fitzgerald. You may need scaling and root planing if you exhibit symptoms such as:
- Gum recession
- Swelling
- Visible plaque accumulations
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Persistent bad breath (also called halitosis)
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a two-step process that typically takes two appointments depending on how far your gum disease has progressed. The treatment will typically go like this:
- Scaling: During your first appointment, our team will clear all plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth using specialized tools, working as far down as the pockets of your gums.
- Root planing: During your second appointment, Dr. Fitzgerald will gently smooth out the roots of your teeth, which will help your gums reintegrate with them. She’ll also be sure to remove any hardened deposits of plaque and bacteria along the roots. This will help prevent tooth loss as well as reinfection.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
You will probably experience some discomfort for a few days after scaling and root planing and may need a few weeks to fully recover. We will happily provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth and speedy healing process. We’ll probably ask you to keep the following guidelines in mind:
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater after meals to ease inflammation and loosen food debris. To make saltwater, combine eight ounces of water with a quarter teaspoon of salt.
- Be gentle when brushing. Take care to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and carefully clean your teeth with short, circular strokes rather than harsh back-and-forth motions.
- Avoid foods and beverages that are hot, spicy, acidic, or alcoholic to prevent gum irritation.
- Abstain from tobacco use.
- Stick to a soft diet for at least forty-eight hours after your treatment.
- Take a break from intense physical exercise for at least a day after scaling and root planing. This will prevent unnecessary stress to the healing gum tissues.
Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser therapy isn’t a standalone treatment. It’s typically utilized in conjunction with scaling and root planing to make the process more effective and help minimize the accumulation of harmful oral bacteria. Using our Biolase EZLase soft tissue laser, Dr. Fitzgerald will remove any severely damaged gum tissue, only leaving the healthy tissue behind to reattach to the roots of your teeth. She can also smooth out rough spots below the gumline with it as well. The laser immediately kills harmful oral bacteria that lead to gum infections and can help reduce symptoms of gum disease.
Antibiotic Therapy
Antibiotic therapy is typically recommended alongside scaling and root planing to help reduce the impact that harmful oral bacteria can have on your smile. Our team uses systemic antibiotics instead of pills, which just means that we target the affected area with antibiotics in a calculated way to be more effective. Typically, we’ll prescribe you systemic antibiotics and you’ll return for a follow-up to ensure that they’re working as they should.