Scaling and Root Planing

With gum disease, regular cleanings just won't cut it. Instead, you may need a deeper kind of cleaning: scaling and root planing. This allows our dentist, Dr. Thiago Morelli, to remove plaque from above and below the gum line to treat gum disease. Prevent your disease from advancing and protect your oral health at our practice in Raleigh, NC.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

The Link Between Gum Disease and Missing Teeth

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, gum disease is the leading reason why Americans are missing teeth. You can take steps to protect your smile by visiting Dr. Morelli at their Raleigh, NC, periodontal office.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Has your dentist recommended scaling and root planing? Then you likely have a condition called periodontal disease, or gum disease. Caused by plaque and tartar above and below your gum line, this condition begins as gingivitis and then progresses to more advanced forms of the disease.

As the least severe iteration of the disease, gingivitis responds well to early attention. Without care, it turns into advanced periodontal disease, eventually causing symptoms like bone deterioration and tooth loss. Scaling and root planing, a type of periodontal deep cleaning, can address your gum disease at the source.

What Are the Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing?

Preventing Tooth Loss

When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause loose or even missing teeth. As a result, you may need treatments like dental implants and implant-supported restorations to restore functionality.

Saving Money on Future Care

A scaling and root planing treatment is cheaper than restorative dentistry like bridges, crowns, and dental implants. Investing in dental work now can save you from future costs.

Alleviating Discomfort

Gum inflammation can cause pain. By undergoing treatment with scaling and root planing, you can alleviate your dental discomfort and improve your oral hygiene at the same time.

Protecting Your Bone

Periodontal disease doesn't just impact your gums—it also affects your jawbone. Over time, it can lead to bone loss and tooth loss. You can avoid these concerns, along with changes in your facial shape, by seeking prompt dental care.

Wake County, NC, Knows That They Can Trust Our Team

Dr. Morelli and his entire staff are the best. They are some of the most friendliest and caring people I have had the pleasure to meet.

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How Does Scaling and Root Planing Work?

The root planing procedure is designed to give you a deeper cleaning than the average dental exam.

Consultation

Before we can recommend the best course of treatment, our no-judgment Raleigh team will see you for a consultation. We'll assess your smile using advanced technology like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Anesthetic

Our team will ensure that you stay comfortable with local anesthetic.

Scaling

Once you're completely at ease, our dentist will remove the plaque and tartar from above and below your gum line. We may use an ultrasonic scaling tool for more efficient tartar removal.

Root Planing

The tooth roots will be smoothed to encourage healthy gum reattachment. Our dentist may finish treatment by placing antibiotic fibers inside the treatment area.

Healing

Your gum tissue will tighten around your teeth as you recover. Be sure to take any antibiotics as prescribed to minimize the risk of infection.

Don't Wait:

Request a Scaling and Root Planing Consultation

How Can I Protect My Smile After Root Planing?

Dr. Morelli will educate you on good oral health practices before you leave. After treating gum disease, some of the best ways to protect your oral health include flossing every day, brushing regularly, and seeing your dentist more often than twice a year. Additional root planing appointments may be necessary to maintain your results—and our Raleigh team is always here to help.