Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing in Chicago, IL
Gum health is essential for a strong smile. At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we offer periodontal scaling and root planing to combat gum disease and protect your oral health.
Personalized Gum Care with Dr. Helen Chan
Under the expert care of Dr. Helen Chan, D.M.D., M.Sc., you'll receive customized treatment to preserve your gums and teeth. We proudly serve patients from Chinatown, The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown.
What Is Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing?
Periodontal scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure used to treat gingivitis and periodontitis, the early and moderate stages of gum disease. The treatment involves thoroughly cleaning the surfaces of your teeth below the gumline, removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria that contribute to inflammation and infection.
- Scaling: Scaling removes the plaque and tartar deposits from both the surface of the teeth and beneath the gums, especially in pockets that form when the gums begin to pull away from the teeth due to gum disease.
- Root Planing: After scaling, root planing smooths out the roots of the teeth to promote gum reattachment and healing, reducing the depth of periodontal pockets and preventing bacteria from re-accumulating.
This two-step process is an essential part of periodontal therapy and can halt the progression of gum disease, allowing the gums to heal and regenerate.
Signs You May Need Scaling & Root Planing
Gum disease can often go unnoticed in its early stages, but there are several key signs to look out for that may indicate the need for periodontal scaling and root planing:
- Red, Swollen Gums: Persistent inflammation is a common sign of gum disease.
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing, may indicate an infection.
- Receding Gums: If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface, it may be a sign of periodontitis.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth may result from bacteria below the gumline.
- Loose Teeth: As gum disease progresses, it can weaken the structures that support your teeth, making them feel loose or wobbly.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chan to assess your gum health and determine the best treatment approach.
What to Expect During Your Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing Treatment
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we ensure your comfort throughout the entire periodontal scaling and root planing process. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
Dr. Chan will begin by conducting a thorough evaluation of your gum health. Digital X-rays or 3D imaging may be used to assess the extent of the gum disease and measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth. We’ll discuss your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your gum health.
2. Local Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort, we will apply local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. This ensures that you won’t feel any discomfort during the procedure.
3. Scaling & Root Planing
Dr. Chan will use specialized tools to carefully remove plaque and tartar from beneath your gums (scaling). Once the plaque and tartar are cleared, root planing will smooth the roots of the teeth, allowing the gums to reattach and heal properly.
4. Post-Treatment Care
After the procedure, you may experience mild gum tenderness or sensitivity. Dr. Chan will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which may include a special mouth rinse, antibiotics, and guidelines for gentle brushing and flossing.
The Benefits of Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing
Treating gum disease early with scaling and root planing offers a range of benefits for your oral health and overall well-being:
- Prevents Tooth Loss: By removing infection and encouraging gum healing, scaling and root planing can prevent the progression of gum disease and protect your teeth from becoming loose or falling out.
- Improves Gum Health: The procedure helps reduce gum inflammation, eliminate infection, and promote healthy tissue regeneration.
- Reduces Gum Pockets: Smoothing the roots of the teeth encourages the gums to reattach, reducing the depth of pockets where bacteria thrive.
- Freshens Breath: Removing bacteria and plaque below the gumline helps eliminate persistent bad breath caused by infection.
- Prevents Systemic Issues: Gum disease has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Treating periodontal problems early can help reduce your risk.
Caring for Your Gums After Scaling & Root Planing
Proper aftercare is essential to ensuring successful healing and preventing further gum disease. Here are a few tips for maintaining healthy gums after your periodontal treatment:
- Brush & Floss Daily: Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Be gentle with your gums while they heal.
- Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: Dr. Chan may recommend a specialized mouthwash to help control bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Attend Regular Check-Ups: Schedule follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing and ensure your gums are responding well to the treatment.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can delay gum healing and increase the risk of complications.
By following these care instructions, you can help your gums heal effectively and reduce the likelihood of further periodontal issues.
Why Choose Wentworth Dental Clinic PC for Periodontal Care?
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we are committed to helping our patients maintain healthy gums and teeth. Here’s why patients from Chinatown, The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown trust us with their periodontal care:
- Experienced Care: Dr. Helen Chan has extensive experience in treating gum disease, providing personalized solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
- Advanced Technology: We use cutting-edge tools and techniques, including laser dentistry and 3D imaging, to ensure precise and effective periodontal treatment.
- Comprehensive Care: From prevention to treatment, we offer a full range of services to help you maintain a healthy smile for life.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been advised to undergo periodontal scaling and root planing, don’t wait. Call us at (312) 225-5500 or visit our Contact Page to schedule your consultation at Wentworth Dental Clinic PC today.