Overview
If you have developed symptoms of gum (periodontal) disease, a regular cleaning might not be sufficient enough. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is usually treated with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a nonsurgical procedure performed by our board-certified Dental Health team to help eliminate gum disease by removing built-up plaque and tartar from the gumline. Using special tools, an SRP treatment cleans out the gum pockets then smoothes the teeth to prevent future buildup. If you are concerned about your gums, learn more about scaling and root planing at Dental Health in Brattleboro, VT.
Best Candidates
During your dental exam, a member of the Dental Health team will check the depth of your gum pockets. If the pockets, also known as sulcus, are greater than three millimeters, a scaling and root planing treatment may be recommended. SRP helps to reduce the size of your gum pockets so plaque and bacteria cannot collect in this area, which leads to the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis). Some of the early symptoms of gum disease are chronic bad breath, loose teeth, as well as gums that are swollen, tender, bleed easily, appear red, or are receding. If gum disease is caught early, one or more SRP treatments can reverse symptoms; however, if gum disease has progressed to later stages (periodontitis or advanced periodontitis), then you may require more extensive treatments.
What To Expect
Scaling and root planing is a deep periodontal cleaning that can be performed in our office with local anesthesia to numb the areas being treated. We may also recommend one of our sedation dentistry techniques if you feel anxious about having this procedure. Our team will use a scaling instrument to clean out built-up plaque and tartar in your gum pockets. We will then smooth or plane the exterior of the tooth to reduce the number of areas where plaque and tartar can become trapped to prevent future buildup.
Dental Health Reviews
Excellent dentist. Compassionate and caring. Everything explained well and she's highly skilled.
Dr Ellison's office is the happiest and friendlyest dental practice I've ever had in my 81 years. I've had all sorts of dental work done at her practice, implants, crowns, extractions and general exams and cleaning. The med techs that assist in all procedures are well educated and trained well. At 81, I wasn't sure about having another implant so I asked Dr Ellison and we had a 20 minute chat to help me with my decision. She went over X-rays and we discussed pros and cons and with her help decided to have an extraction instead of a transplant since it was a tooth in the background and would not be seen when smiling and would not interfere with chewing. At 81 I thought this was a smart choice. Dr Ellison is so pleasant, friendly and professional all at the same time. Same with her entire staff right up to the front desk who are also very helpful in answering questions. I can recommend this dental office wholeheartedly without hesitation.
Very pleased
The went the extra mile for me and my initial needs, making extra appointment times available just for me. fabulous, positive staff, soothing communication from doctors with a personal touch of communication. Thrilled to have found their practice, very grateful. Small bump in the road initially with office staff, but was quickly addressed and have been very pleased and grateful ever since
I’ve been with them since moving to Vermont in 2019. Dr. Ellison and every other contact I’ve had there has been great.
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
Recovery
After your SRP treatment, you may experience increased gum and tooth sensitivity, as well as some numbness from the local anesthetic. We may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate any remaining bacteria from your gums. You should follow a good oral care routine at home, including proper brushing and flossing, to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. You should also schedule annual dental exams so our team can assess the health of your gums and teeth, plus bi-annual appointments to have your mouth professionally cleaned. Depending on the original condition of your gums and your home care after an SRP treatment, you may need more SRP treatments to fully restore your oral health.
Insurance Coverage
Scaling and root planing is a common procedure for the treatment of gum disease that is usually covered in part by dental insurance. We can contact your carrier to determine your coverage and personal costs. If you do not have dental insurance, Dental Health accepts many payment methods, including medical financing that can be discussed during your consultation.
Scaling and Root Planing
Gum disease can become painful and dangerous to your health, so if you are experiencing symptoms, please schedule an exam with our team at our office in Brattleboro, VT. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is usually treated with a simple scaling and root planing treatment at our family dental practice. Please contact us to schedule an appointment or to get more information.