Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing of the teeth is an essential treatment for those who are showing signs of periodontal (gum) disease. This process is very important, as gum disease can affect your health negatively when left untreated. Periodontal disease can be a silent disease, meaning those who have the beginnings of it often do not realize that it is present. We at Smiles Dental Studio can help you. Dr. Khan, our Sacramento, CA dentist, can analyze your condition before designing the most suitable treatment plan for you.
What happens during scaling and root planing?
In this procedure, the gums and roots of the teeth are cleaned with specially-designed tools to rid them of hidden plaque and tartar. Plaque and tartar are responsible for trapping the bacteria that cause gum problems and cavities. By scaling and planing the roots of the teeth, Dr. Khan is able to give the gums and teeth more protection from bacteria. This helps the gums return to their natural, healthy state.
Smiles Dental Studio of Sacramento, CA has state-of-the-art equipment for scaling and root planing. We have special ultrasonic instruments that can easily remove hardened plaque as well as “scalers” to effectively clean the gums and teeth. During this process, Dr. Khan will use local anesthesia so you will feel no pain and are relaxed for the duration of the treatment. We want you to be as comfortable as possible during the whole process.
The advantages of scaling and root planing are:
- It can effectively treat mild gum problems such as gingivitis.
- It removes and eliminates plaque, bacteria, tartar, and stains in existing pockets around the teeth.
- It can help prevent the need for more aggressive treatments like periodontal surgery.
A beautiful smile is the result of healthy teeth and gums. Scaling and root planing will not only contribute to good oral health, but also a healthy, beautiful smile. Your smile means everything to us. Please contact us today! We look forward to meeting you and talking to you about the wide range of dental services that we offer to the Sacramento, CA area.
Gum Grafts and What They Are All About
When Dr. Khan, your Sacramento dentist, sees you during those regular dental check-ups, she isn’t just taking note of your teeth but also your gums. Your gum health is a crucial part of your overall oral health. In fact, gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis can lead to teeth loss, even the healthy ones. If in one of your visits to Dr. Khan, she tells you that you need a gum graft, then don’t panic right away. The procedure actually isn’t as daunting as you would think.
What is a gum graft?
Gum grafts involve the removal of a piece of gum tissue and the subsequent transfer of that piece of tissue to another part of your mouth. While gum grafts are invasive in nature, they really aren’t as scary as gum surgery. Gum grafts may be necessary in order to preserve the aesthetics of your smile as well as the integrity of your teeth.
For one, gum grafts can prevent the worsening of gum recession. Gum recession is when the gumline moves further down, exposing the dental roots of teeth. The appearance of dental roots will ruin your smile and also compromise the attachment of these structures in your gums. As more and more of the dental roots are exposed, only a minimal amount of the tooth is anchored within the tooth.
What are the different types of gum graft procedures?
Gum grafts occur in different types and are required for differing reasons. Depending on what your dentist feels is necessary in your case, he or she can recommend that you undergo any of the following procedures:
Connective Tissue Grafts
This type of tissue graft is the most commonly requested of all three. The main indication for this procedure is the treatment of dental root exposure. A certain portion of your palate, the roof of your mouth, is cut and a portion of the tissue underneath that flap is stitched into the area with the dental root exposure. The flap which has been produced in the palate is then stitched back down.
Free Gingival Grafts
This type of graft is similar to connective tissue grafts only that the removed gum tissue is not found underneath the palate. Rather, it is the exposed palate tissue which is directly transplanted. This procedure is useful for individuals who have thin gums to begin with and require thickening of these gingival tissues.
Pedicle Graft
This type of grafting procedure involves the removal of gingival tissue found close to the transplant site. However, only one part of the gum is excised and the gum tissue is only pulled to the direction of the transplant site without actually being removed.
For more information about our periodontal procedures at Smiles Dental Studio, give us a call today at (916) 575-7536.
