Scaling and Root Planing in Middlebury, VT

Fortunately, if gum (periodontal) disease is identified during the initial stage, often referred to as gingivitis, it can be resolved with a thorough teeth cleaning and improved oral hygiene regimens. But when the gum issue advances to the subsequent phase, called periodontitis, dentist Dr. Brian Saltzman may recommend scaling and root planing (SRP) treatments. Scaling and root planing is a popular gum disease treatment that gets rid of buildup, tartar, and harmful bacteria from underneath your gum tissues. To conduct this therapy, our talented Middlebury, VT dental professionals smooth the outsides of your tooth roots with precise dental instruments. Scaling and root planing works to produce a better environment for your gums and help halt the advancement of gum disease. In the event that you have signs of periodontitis, schedule an exam at Lincoln Peak Dental to learn more about how scaling and root planing can help you take control of your oral health.

You might be a good candidate for SRP treatments if you have red or sensitive gums, bad breath, a diminishing gumline, or other signs of gum disease. During a dental exam, we will evaluate the pockets dividing your teeth from the gumline. When these areas surpass three millimeters deep and scans prove that bone loss has taken place, Dr. Saltzman might provide scaling and root planing. This periodontal disease treatment will help minimize the size of your gum pockets and might enable you to manage your gums with more ease. Gum disease that is diagnosed in the middle phase will typically be taken care of with SRP therapy at Lincoln Peak Dental.

This gum disease solution at our Middlebury, VT practice is usually done in varied areas of the mouth over a period of 1 – 4 sessions. To make sure that you stay relaxed and calm, Dr. Saltzman will dull your treatment area using a local anesthetic. Sedation might also be available if you are anxious when getting dental care. Once we are ready to get started, our professionals will use an advanced root scaler and hand instruments to thoroughly eradicate tartar and plaque from within your gum pockets. The tooth root surfaces will then be evened out, or planed, to reduce the regions where disease-causing bacteria could collect. Topically delivered antibiotics can additionally be distributed down into the periodontal pockets to promote dental wellness and control bacterial accumulation.

Inflammation and gum pain may persist for several days after your scaling and root planing therapy. However, these issues can generally be taken care of with over-the-counter pain medication and warm salt water rinses. Good oral health routines, like thorough brushing and flossing twice a day, are essential for sustaining your periodontal health. Dr. Saltzman might also advise you to get regular gum cleanings to diminish the odds of recurring infections and to better care for your periodontal health. These periodontal cleaning appointments are typically performed 3 – 4 times a year and take the place of biannual dental cleanings.

Lincoln Peak Dental is proud to offer scaling and root planing in Middlebury, VT, which could be paid for in part by insurance programs. If you carry dental insurance, we will call your provider to ascertain your complete benefits before calculating any out-of-pocket costs. Our practice takes multiple payment options, like medical payment programs, to make sure that your dental treatment is more affordable.

Thanks to advances in the dental care field, it's easier to target and get rid of complications brought on by periodontal disease. At Lincoln Peak Dental, dentist Dr. Brian Saltzman and our staff offer noninvasive scaling and root planing to manage the periodontitis stage of gum disease and prevent it from worsening. Schedule a gum evaluation with Dr. Saltzman at our Middlebury, VT office to maintain your gum health.