Scale and Root Planing Risks

Relatively speaking, the risks in having the scale and root planing procedure are far smaller than simply avoiding the procedure altogether. Neglecting the infected soft tissue of the gums have far greater health consequences than the risks that might be involved with the deep cleaning of your teeth. Let’s first look at what causes this predicament, the procedure itself, identify the minor risks involved and the benefits to your gum health by have the procedure done.

Keeping Nature Balanced

It is a little-known fact that each of us have millions of bacteria in our mouths every day. Necessary to break down the life supporting nutrients in what we eat and drink, if these bacteria is left unattended the numbers increase and start to form a clear sticky substance on the teeth called plaque. This plaque harbors damaging sugars and acids that will attack the enamel and result in decay and cavities. If you remove that plaque every day by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once you can keep these bacteria in balance. If you neglect your mouth the plaque will continue to build and drift down the tooth below the gumline. Now you have the damaging source for immediate gum disease as the plaque infects the soft tissue. You now have your reason to pursue a scale and root planing procedure.

The Simply, Methodical Process of Scaling and Root Planing

Often times called deep cleaning, the dentist or hygienist continues down the tooth with a handheld scaling tool scraping the plaque off the tooth. If the gum disease has advanced a local anesthetic will be necessary to alleviate the discomfort through the process.

The small risks involved with the scale and root planing procedure include the following:

• If you have a reaction to the local anesthesia.
• If the Gum Disease is advanced and you have excessive bleeding of the soft tissue.
• The level of pain after the procedure.
• The amount of swelling and bruising you might experience.
• A rare chance of an infection after the procedure.
• An increased sensitivity to temperature which should go away through healing.
• Exposing more of the crown.
• Exposing some of the root surface.
• A throbbing pain associated with the tooth and root.

The Benefits of Proceeding with Scaling and Root Planing

Some of the risks above are unavoidable if you do not remove the damaging plaque and allow the gum disease or periodontal disease to advance. You will see sagging gums exposing teeth and you will run the high risk of having loose teeth and losing teeth. By having the procedure and dealing with a few days of recovery the soft tissue will very quickly begin to heal. The inflammation will subside, the color will return to a healthy pink and the tissue will tighten up again around each tooth. Now, keep in mind all of this can be avoided by simply brushing twice a day and seeing your dentist twice a year for an evaluation and a professional cleaning. Take care of your healthy mouth and your healthy smile.

More on Scale & Root Planing : Is Scale & Root Planing Painful?