Scaling and Root Planing in Myrtle Beach, SC

If you have developed signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a normal cleaning may not be adequate enough. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is commonly corrected with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a noninvasive procedure done by Dr. James Mills to help eliminate gingivitis by removing built-up tartar and plaque from the below the gumline. With specific instruments, a scaling and root planing treatment at Market Common Dentistry cleans the gum pockets, then smoothes the surface of your teeth to avoid further buildup. If you are worried about your gums, find out more about SRP treatments at Market Common Dentistry in Myrtle Beach, SC.

At your dental examination, Dr. Mills will measure how deep your gum pockets are. In the event your gum pockets, also called sulcus, are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing therapy might be recommended. SRP will help to decrease the size of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the initial phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). A number of the early signs of gingivitis are chronic bad breath, in addition to gums that are bleed easily, are tender, swollen, look red, or are starting to recede. When gingivitis is discovered in the early stages, one or more scaling and root planing procedures can eliminate signs, but when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you might need more comprehensive procedures.

SRP is a deep cleaning that may be done in our office using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being addressed. We might also suggest sedation methods if you are feeling worried about having SRP. Dr. Mills will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. He will subsequently plane or smooth the surface of the enamel to decrease the number of regions where tartar and plaque may get caught to avoid future problems.

Following your SRP therapy, you might notice greater tooth and gum sensitivity in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Mills can write a prescription for antibiotics that will help remove any residual bacteria from the gums. You should stick to a good oral hygiene regimen in your home, such as daily flossing and brushing, to keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. You also need to schedule yearly dental examinations so Dr. Mills can evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, as well as biannual visits to get your teeth cleaned. Based upon the initial state of your mouth and your own home care following SRP therapy, you might need two or three more scaling and root planing procedures to completely restore your mouth.

Gingivitis may become dangerous and painful for your health so if you are having signs, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Mills at our office in Myrtle Beach, SC. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is typically corrected using a very simple SRP process at Market Common Dentistry. Please contact us to schedule an appointment or to receive more details.