Scaling and Root Planing in Dallas, TX

At MINT dentistry in Dallas, TX, we want to help patients of all ages and walks of life get a beautiful smile that lasts a long time. Ideally, we try to prevent dental conditions with annual exams and bi-annual cleanings, but if you have symptoms of gum disease, you may need more than a regular cleaning. MINT dentistry utilizes advanced tools and techniques to address the earliest stage of gum disease (gingivitis) with scaling and root planing (SRP). This nonsurgical procedure is performed by a board-certified MINT dentist to treat gum disease by removing built-up plaque and tartar from under the gumline. This specialized procedure begins with cleaning out the gum pockets, then the teeth are smoothed or planed to minimize new buildup. If you notice symptoms of gum disease, contact us to make an appointment at our state-of-the-art office in Dallas, TX. Whether your mouth is already healthy or you have signs of gum disease, we can help you achieve a sexy, attractive smile with proactive care and advanced treatments.

During your dental exam, your dentist will look at the depth of your gum pockets. If the sulcus (gum pockets) are too deep, we will recommend a scaling and root planing treatment. Scaling and root planing (SRP) helps to reduce the size of your gum pockets to eliminate buildup under the gumline, which is the main cause of the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis). The first signs of gum disease are chronic bad breath, loose teeth, as well as gums that are swollen, tender, bleed, look red, and are pulling away from the teeth. When gum disease is diagnosed in the earliest stage, one or more SRP treatment can reverse symptoms; however, if gum disease has progressed to later stages (periodontitis or advanced periodontitis), you may require a different procedure.

A deep cleaning with scaling and root planing can be performed in our office with your gums numbed using local anesthesia. Your dentist can also review stronger sedation techniques to help you with stress or anxiety. At the start of your appointment, we'll ask you to sit back and relax in a massaging chair. You'll choose music to listen to through our Beats headphones, then you will be given MINT sunglasses to help you feel at ease. Next, we will administer your anesthesia to keep you comfortable and relaxed during your procedure. When you are ready, one of our board-certified dentists will use a scaling instrument to clean out all the build up under your gumline. We will then plane (smooth) the exterior of your teeth so there are less crevices where plaque, tartar, and bacteria get trapped.

Immediately following your treatment, you should expect extra sensitivity, as well as temporary numbness from the local anesthetic. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate any remaining bacteria in your gums. You should follow a good oral care routine at home, including daily flossing and brushing, to keep your mouth healthy and bright. You should continue to schedule appointments twice a year for cleanings and an exam, so your dentist can check your oral health. Depending on the results of your treatment, we might recommend a second procedure to fully repair your gums.

Since scaling and root planing is a treatment for gingivitis, it's typically covered in part by dental insurance. If you have insurance, our team will reach out to your carrier to determine what your policy covers and your remaining costs. If you do not have insurance, we are committed to helping you afford your dental procedures by accepting many payment methods, including low-interest financing, which can be discussed during your consultation. Ask a MINT dental professional about the MINT Discount Plan, which can help you afford everything you need to get a healthy, beautiful smile.

An infection in your gums negatively impacts your overall health and keeps you from getting your best smile. The first stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, can usually be treated with SRP (scaling and root planing) at MINT dentistry in Dallas, TX. Please contact us to get more information or to schedule an appointment. Our team of dental health professionals will work to restore your gums and help you get sexy teeth.