Appointments

Please contact us with any questions or comments, or to schedule on appointment. You can call us at 561-600-5484 or fill out this simple form.

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Periodontal (Gum) Treatment (Root Planing and Scaling)

Periodontics deals with the gums, tissues, and bones that support the teeth. It is preventive in nature and is mainly concerned with preventing and treating periodontal or gum disease. We are committed to maintaining our patients’ overall oral health. We will work with you to help you achieve lasting health for your teeth and gums.

Periodontal Disease

We work to maintain the overall health of your mouth, including your gums. Periodontal (gum) disease is characterized by an excessive amount of plaque and calculus (tartar) which have accumulated around the teeth, causing deterioration to the surrounding area of the teeth (and can include the jawbone). It can be identified by red, swollen and bleeding gums. If left untreated, periodontal disease will eventually begin to destroy the gums and bone.

Because the early stages of periodontal diseases are usually painless, it can be difficult to detect. Some of the signs and symptoms of developing periodontal disease include the following:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Increased spaces between teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Pus around the gums and teeth
  • Receding gums around a tooth
  • Red and inflamed gums
  • Tenderness and discomfort

Aside from the risk of losing your permanent teeth, there are many health risks that are associated with periodontal disease. Untreated periodontal disease is dangerous. That is why we make an effort to prevent the disease, and to save you from unnecessary costs of periodontal disease.

To avoid advancement in periodontal disease, patients should practice good oral hygiene, eat a balanced diet, and attend regularly scheduled dental appointments. If there is any pain or discomfort surrounding your teeth or gums, it is strongly recommended that you visit a dentist immediately.

Scaling and Planing

We offer deep cleaning services at our practice, including scaling and root planing. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth surface. Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces and removing the infected tooth structure.  These measures help fight gingivitis, a generative disease which, if left untreated, will cause significant tooth and gum deterioration. Plaque and tartar on the teeth provide an environment in which bacteria thrive and multiply, resulting in inflamed and bleeding gums. At this early stage, gingivitis can be easily treated by a hygienist with scaling and polishing. If left untreated, the condition will progress and the roots will need a planing.

As non-surgical procedures, scaling and planing are performed without any anesthesia. While the procedure is usually painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may make it necessary to numb the area for complete comfort. Deep scaling and root planing are usually broken down into one section of the mouth per appointment. This allows for adequate healing time, and reduces the time for each appointment. Please call our office and schedule an appointment with one of our dentists, Dr. Thomas Rohrer and Dr. Joy LaDelfa Rohrer. We offer the modern, professional dental care you need for healthy teeth and gums.