- What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
- Are You a Candidate for SRP?
- What Is the Treatment Process?
- What Should I Expect Following Scaling and Root Planing Therapy?
- Is Scaling and Root Planing Covered by Insurance?
- Western Mass Periodontics Reviews
- Stop the Progression of Periodontal Disease
- Get in Touch
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
If periodontal (gum) disease is diagnosed during the initial phase, also referred to as gingivitis, it might be resolved with a professional teeth cleaning and improved oral health routines. However, if it advances to the next stage, referred to as periodontitis, scaling and root planing (SRP) may be necessary. Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical periodontal disease solution that eliminates buildup, tartar, and bacteria from under your gum tissues. To carry out this therapy, our highly trained dental team at Western Mass Periodontics will smooth the surfaces of your tooth roots within gum pockets using specially designed dental tools. SRP can create an improved environment for your gumline and undo the progression of periodontal disease. When you show signs of periodontal disease, schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Great Barrington or Pittsfield, MA to learn more about scaling and root planing.
Are You a Candidate for SRP?
You may be a candidate for SRP therapy if you notice bloody or inflamed gums, foul breath, gum recession, or other symptoms of periodontal disease. During your appointment, our team will measure the pockets dividing your teeth and gumline. If these areas are over three millimeters deep and scans prove that bone loss has taken place, we may perform SRP treatments. This periodontal disease option should lessen the size of the gum pockets and enable you to care for your gums with simpler methods.
What Is the Treatment Process?
Treatment with SRP at our Pittsfield and Great Barrington, MA facilities is frequently done in varied areas of the mouth over the course of 1 – 4 sessions. To help you feel comfortable, we may numb your mouth by offering a local anesthetic. Sedation may also be available if you have anxiety when having oral treatment. During treatment, one of our professionals will use an advanced dental scaler and hand instruments to thoroughly eradicate tartar and plaque from your gum gaps. Your tooth root surfaces will then be smoothed (planed) to decrease the regions where dangerous bacteria might gather. In some cases, a locally delivered antibiotic might be placed down into the gum pockets to encourage oral wellness and stop bacterial accumulation.
What Should I Expect Following Scaling and Root Planing Therapy?
Inflammation and gum discomfort can occur for some days following your scaling and root planing treatment. These problems can usually be taken care of with over-the-counter pain meds and warm saline rinses. Maintaining dental health regimens, such as brushing twice a day and flossing each day, is essential for maintaining your gum wellness. We may also suggest that you get regular gum maintenance treatments to diminish the risk of repeated infections and better care for your periodontal health. These periodontal maintenance appointments are generally scheduled every 3 – 4 months and stand in for routine dental cleanings.
Is Scaling and Root Planing Covered by Insurance?
Western Mass Periodontics is pleased to offer scaling and root planing to treat gum disease, which could be covered in part by insurance programs. If you have dental coverage, our team can reach out to your carrier to learn about the overall benefits before figuring out any remaining expenses. Our staff takes several payment options to help make sure that your oral treatment is more accessible.
Western Mass Periodontics Reviews
I have recently had 2 root canals done at Western Mass Endo...Dr Scott & Dr Shapiro were both wonderfu! My procedures were painless both during and after..and I have to say the staff are all so nice..Elissa is a compassionate and very kind assistant. I am very thankful for the wonderful care that I receive. Deb Galvagni
Dr Schmidt is the best! I was worried about a possible tooth infection and how that might affect my upcoming surgery. Dr Schmidt returned my call right away and fit me in for an exam immediately..I was very thankful! Dr Schmidt has previously done 2 implants for me and the entire process was painless and turned out beautifully. Thanks again to Dr Schmidt and his wonderful staff! Deb Galvagni!
Great caring staff and doctors.
All employees cheerful and competent.Dr Schmidt inspires confidence.
We had a fantastic experience with this practice! Everyone was incredibly friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. My son needed an implant, and the entire process went smoothly—we couldn’t be happier with the care he received. I highly recommend them!
546
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
Stop the Progression of Periodontal Disease
With accomplishments in the dental industry, it's possible to address and reverse the complications that result from gum disease before it progresses. At Western Mass Periodontics, our team performs nonsurgical scaling and root planing treatments to treat the periodontitis stage of periodontal disease and help prevent its progression. To learn more about scaling and root planing or to arrange a gum assessment, contact our Great Barrington or Pittsfield, MA office.