Scaling and Root Planing in Broomall PA

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults over the age of 30 show some signs of periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease is a progressive condition that can cause significant damage to your gums, teeth, and overall health. At Advanced Dental Concepts in Broomall, PA, Dr. Sander I. White provides advanced scaling and root planing treatments to protect your smile.

This specialized dental cleaning, often called deep cleaning, removes stubborn plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline where normal brushing and flossing cannot reach. By targeting bacteria and smoothing the tooth roots, this procedure helps stop gum disease from progressing, giving patients healthier gums, fresher breath, and a more confident smile.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease develops in stages, beginning with gingivitis and advancing to periodontitis if left untreated.

• Gingivitis is the earliest stage and is marked by swollen, red gums that may bleed easily when you brush or floss. At this stage, the disease is still reversible with proper care and professional cleaning.
• Periodontitis is the more advanced stage. The gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap more bacteria. Over time, this leads to bone loss, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss.

The primary cause of periodontal disease is bacterial buildup on the teeth and gums. Bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gum tissue and trigger inflammation. If the plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which requires professional cleaning to eliminate.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

If you experience any of the following issues, you may have gum disease and could benefit from scaling and root planing:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
• Gum recession that makes teeth appear longer
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Tooth sensitivity
• Pus around the gums and teeth

Ignoring these signs allows the condition to worsen, which may result in permanent oral health problems.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a two-step deep cleaning process designed to treat gum disease without surgery.

1. Scaling: Using specialized instruments, Dr. White removes plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria from the tooth surfaces, including areas beneath the gumline.
2. Root Planing: The roots of the teeth are smoothed to make it harder for bacteria to reattach. This also allows the gums to heal and reattach more firmly to the teeth.

For patient comfort, local anesthetic may be used, especially if gum pockets are deep or if multiple areas require treatment. In some cases, the procedure may take more than one appointment, depending on the severity of the gum disease.

What to Expect After Treatment

Following scaling and root planing, you may notice some gum tenderness or mild sensitivity, which typically resolves within a few days. Dr. White may recommend:

• Antimicrobial rinses to reduce bacteria
• Medicated gels or antibiotic placement in gum pockets
• Detailed instructions for at-home care to prevent reinfection

With consistent oral hygiene and follow-up care, most patients see significant improvement in gum health within weeks.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing offers numerous short-term and long-term benefits:

1. Prevents Disease Progression

By removing harmful bacteria and plaque, scaling and root planing stop gum disease before it causes irreversible damage.

2. Protects Tooth Roots

Deep cleaning reduces the risk of root decay and prevents further bone and gum loss.

3. Improves Overall Health

Studies have linked periodontal disease to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Controlling gum disease may also reduce the risk of these health concerns.

4. Restores a Healthy Smile

This treatment removes tartar, reduces gum swelling, and eliminates bad breath, giving you a cleaner, brighter smile.

5. Saves Money and Time

Treating gum disease early with scaling and root planing can help avoid more expensive and invasive treatments, such as gum surgery or tooth replacement.

Preventing Gum Disease After Treatment

Scaling and root planing is highly effective, but ongoing care is essential to maintain results. Patients should:

• Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
• Floss at least once daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Use antimicrobial or fluoride mouth rinses if recommended
• Schedule professional dental cleanings every three to four months if you are prone to gum disease
• Eat a balanced diet that supports immune health and gum strength
• Avoid smoking or tobacco use, which significantly increases the risk of periodontal disease

How Often Do You Need Scaling and Root Planing?

For patients with advanced periodontitis, scaling and root planing may be required more than once a year. Most periodontal patients benefit from maintenance visits every three to four months, while those with mild gingivitis may only require the procedure once, followed by regular cleanings.

Dr. White and his dental team will assess your specific needs and develop a personalized treatment plan to keep your smile healthy.

Why Choose Dr. Sander I. White in Broomall, PA?

Choosing the right dentist for periodontal care is essential. At Advanced Dental Concepts, Dr. White combines years of experience with advanced technology to ensure effective and comfortable treatment. Patients choose our Broomall office because we provide:

• A compassionate, patient-focused approach
• State-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnosis and treatment
• A commitment to preventive care and education
• Customized treatment plans for every patient’s needs

Dr. White’s dedication to excellence in dentistry makes him a trusted provider for gum disease treatment in Delaware County and surrounding communities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling and Root Planing

Is scaling and root planing painful?

Most patients tolerate the procedure well. Local anesthesia is available to keep you comfortable, and any post-treatment tenderness usually subsides quickly.

Will my gums heal completely after scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing can stop gum disease from progressing and allow gums to reattach, but the extent of healing depends on how advanced the disease is.

How long does the procedure take?

The duration varies depending on how many teeth are affected and the severity of gum disease. Some patients may require multiple visits.

Can gum disease return after treatment?

Yes, gum disease can return if plaque control is not maintained. Regular checkups and good oral hygiene are essential.

Schedule Scaling and Root Planing in Broomall, PA

Gum disease does not go away on its own, and early treatment is key to protecting your oral and overall health. At Advanced Dental Concepts, Dr. Sander I. White and his team are committed to helping you overcome periodontal disease with effective treatments like scaling and root planing.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or want to protect your smile from future problems, schedule an appointment today. With professional care and consistent maintenance, you can enjoy healthier gums, stronger teeth, and lasting confidence in your smile.