Scaling and Root Planing in Melbourne, FL

If you have developed symptoms of gum (periodontal) disease, a regular cleaning might not be sufficient enough to help. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is typically treated with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a simple procedure performed by experienced dentist Dr. Sangiv I. Patel to help eliminate periodontal disease by removing built-up plaque and tartar from the underneath the gumline. Using special tools, an SRP treatment at Dr. Patel's private practice, Sangiv I. Patel, D.D.S., PA, cleans under the gumline and smooths the teeth to prevent future buildup. If you are concerned about your gums, learn more about SRP at our innovative facility in Melbourne, FL.

During your dental exam, Dr. Patel will assess the depth of your gum pockets. If the pockets, also known as sulcus, are more than three millimeters deep, a scaling and root planing treatment might 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, such as 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 techniques if you experience significant anxieties regarding this procedure. Dr. Patel will use a scaling instrument to clean out built-up plaque and tartar in your gum pockets. Dr. Patel 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. Patel 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 should also continue to schedule your annual dental exams so Dr. Patel can assess the health of your gums and teeth. You should also attend your bi-annual appointments to have your mouth professionally cleaned. Depending on the original condition of your gums and your at-home care after an SRP treatment, you may need several more SRP treatments to fully 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, Sangiv I. Patel, D.D.S., PA accepts numerous payment methods, including medical financing.

Periodontal disease can become painful and dangerous to your health so if you are experiencing symptoms, please schedule an exam with Dr. Patel at his office in Melbourne, FL. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is normally treated with a simple scaling and root planing treatment at our practice. Contact our office to schedule an appointment or to get more information about periodontal disease or scaling and root planing.