BEST CANDIDATES

At your dental examination, Dr. Abraham will assess how deep your gum pockets are. In the case that your gum pockets, also called sulcus, are more than three millimeters, then a scaling and root planing therapy could be recommended. SRP can help to decrease the size of the gum pockets so bacteria and plaque cannot accumulate in this region, which contributes to the very first phase of periodontal disease (gingivitis). A number of the early signs of periodontal disease are loose teeth, in addition to gums that are tender, swollen, bleed easily, look red, or have begun to recede. When periodontal disease is diagnosed at the onset, one or more scaling and root planing therapies can improve signs, but when periodontal disease has reached later phases (regular or advanced periodontitis), then you might need more comprehensive therapies.

WHAT TO EXPECT

SRP is a deep cleaning that may be carried out in our office using local anesthesia on the areas of your mouth being treated. We might also suggest sedation methods if you are feeling stressed about having SRP. Dr. Abraham will utilize a scaling tool to clean the tartar and plaque below the gumline. He will also subsequently plane or smooth the outside of the enamel to decrease the number of regions where tartar and plaque may get caught to avoid future problems.

RECOVERY

Following your SRP therapy, you might have greater tooth and gum sensitivity, in addition to some tingling from the local anesthesia. Dr. Abraham can write a prescription for antibiotics that will help remove any residual bacteria from the gums. You should adhere to a good oral hygiene regimen in your home, such as daily flossing and brushing to keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. You also ought to schedule yearly dental examinations so Dr. Abraham can evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, as well as bi-annual visits to get your teeth cleaned. Based upon the initial state of your mouth and your own home care following an SRP therapy, you might need several more scaling and root planing procedures to totally restore your gums.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

SRP is a very common procedure for treating gum disease that’s generally paid for in part by dental insurance. Our team will get in touch with your provider to discover what is covered by your policy and determine your individual expenses. If you don’t have dental insurance, then LifeTime Smiles of OC takes numerous payments, including low-interest financing, which may be explained in your appointment.

SCALING AND ROOT PLANING

Periodontal disease may become dangerous and painful for your health so if you’re having symptoms, then please schedule an appointment with Dr. Abraham at his office in Santa Ana, CA. The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is normally corrected using a very simple SRP process at LifeTime Smiles of OC. Please contact us to make an appointment or to receive more information.