Scaling and Root Planing in Humble, TX

At MINT dentistry in Humble, TX, we want to help patients of all ages and walks of life achieve a healthy smile that lasts a long time. Ideally, we try to prevent dental problems with proactive oral healthcare, like exams and cleanings; however, if you have symptoms of gum disease, your normal cleaning twice a year might need extra help. MINT dentistry uses modern equipment and techniques to address the earliest stage of gum disease (gingivitis) with scaling and root planing. SRP (scaling and root planing) is a simple treatment that is done by a board-certified MINT dentist to help eliminate gum disease by cleaning out plaque and tartar that has built up under the gumline. This specialized treatment cleans out the gum pockets, then the enamel is planed (smoothed) to reduce future buildup. If you have reason to believe you are suffering from the beginning stages of gum disease, schedule a consultation at our modern office in Humble, TX. Regardless of the condition of your mouth and gums, MINT dentistry can help you achieve sexy teeth with diligent, professional care.

During your annual examination, one of our skilled dental professionals will check the depth of your gum pockets. If the pockets (sulcus) are three millimeters or greater, a scaling and root planing treatment is the most common option. Scaling and root planing (SRP) helps to reduce the size of your gum pockets by removing built-up tartar and plaque beneath the gumline, which causes the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis). A few of the symptoms of gingivitis are chronic halitosis (bad breath), loose teeth, plus gums that are swollen, tender, are receding, red, or bleeding. If gum disease is discovered early on, a scaling and root planing treatment or multiple SRP treatments can improve the condition; however, if gum disease has progressed to later stages (periodontitis or advanced periodontitis), you may require another treatment to repair your oral health.

A deep periodontal cleaning with scaling and root planing (SRP) is done in our practice with a local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the treatment. Your dentist will also give you other dental sedation options to help you with stress or anxiety. To start your SRP treatment, you can enjoy relaxing in a comfortable treatment chair. You'll choose music to listen to through our Beats headphones, then we'll give you MINT sunglasses to protect your eyes. Next, we will administer your anesthesia to ensure you will not feel discomfort. Once you've been prepped, one of our board-certified dentists will use a scaling instrument to clean out the plaque and tartar that have built up in your gum pockets. We will then perform the planing, smoothing the exterior of your teeth so there are fewer crevices where plaque and tartar can become trapped to prevent future buildup.

After your procedure, you will probably have increased gum and tooth sensitivity, plus temporary numbness from the local anesthetic. One of our MINT specialists might prescribe antibiotics to eliminate any remaining bacteria in your mouth. You need an oral hygiene routine at home, including flossing and brushing at least twice a day, to keep your smile healthy. Keep scheduling appointments twice a year for cleanings and an exam so the MINT dentistry team can monitor your gums and general dental health. Depending on the condition of your gums after treatment, your dentist may suggest a second procedure to fully reverse the symptoms of gum disease.

Scaling and root planing is a common procedure for the treatment of gum disease that is typically covered at least partially by dental insurance. If you are using insurance, our team will speak to your carrier to determine the specific coverage of your policy and then calculate your out-of-pocket costs. If you do not have insurance, we are committed to helping you afford your dental procedures by taking many methods of payment, including low-interest medical financing, which can be discussed during your consultation. Ask a member of our team how you can get healthy teeth with the MINT Discount Plan, our in-office program to make it easier to afford the treatments you need.

Periodontal or gum disease negatively impacts your overall health and stops you from having a healthy, beautiful smile. However, the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, can typically be effectively reversed with SRP (scaling and root planing) at our office in Humble, TX. Contact us to get more information or to schedule an appointment. Our team of dental health professionals will work to restore your gums and help you achieve a smile that's radiant and healthy.