Scaling and root planning is a deep cleaning procedure for gum disease. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus) that brushing can't reach. This irritates gums, forming pockets that trap more bacteria.Scaling removes plaque and tartar from both the tooth surface and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth roots, helping gums reattach to teeth and fight infection. It's usually done in one to two appointments with numbing medication for comfort.
Bad breath treatment depends on the cause. Here are some general tips:
If these don't help, see your dentist to identify the cause and get specific treatment recommendations.
Your dental gums are the pink, fleshy tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth. Oral health refers to the health of your entire mouth, including your teeth, gums, tongue, and inner cheek lining.
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day removes plaque, a sticky film that can irritate gums and lead to gingivitis (inflamed gums). If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious gum infection that can damage the bone supporting your teeth and even lead to tooth loss.
Maintaining good oral hygiene through brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups can help prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy.
Arestin is a unique antibiotic treatment for gum disease. Unlike pills, it's applied directly by a dentist into gum pockets after a cleaning (scaling and root planing).
Arestin comes in tiny spheres containing minocycline, an antibiotic that fights gum infection. These spheres slowly release the medicine over several weeks, targeting the bacteria where it lives.
This localized approach delivers the antibiotic directly where it's needed, minimizing side effects compared to oral antibiotics. Arestin is used with scaling and root planing for a more effective gum disease treatment.
