When you have gum disease, we may recommend that you have your teeth and their roots scraped. This is a treatment that’s been proven to stop the progress of gum disease. Many people wonder how this works though.
What Is Scraping?
Scraping is a process that literally involves scraping away any plaque and tartar that’s developed anywhere around your gum line. These are areas where bacteria collect and multiply, resulting in gum disease. Once the scraping is complete, we will smooth out your teeth’s roots so your gums can attach themselves to your teeth once again.
You may hear scraping in San Antonio, TX, referred to as a “deep cleaning” or “scaling,” which is often done alongside root planing. Of course, if you are ever unsure about a technique or process, just ask your hygienist or dentist to explain. They are happy to educate you on how and why treatments are done.
How Scraping Your Teeth And Roots Halts Gum Disease
This is a very effective way to get your gums’ health back on track. Since you stand a higher chance of losing your teeth when you have large pockets between your teeth and gums, scraping these out is beneficial. It’s a way of removing any infection or decay that is found there. Essentially, this is what gum disease is, which is why you need this procedure to stop the advancement of this disease.
The Necessity Of Scraping
Scraping is thought of as a type of deep cleaning. Unfortunately, this hour-long procedure isn’t something that anyone looks forward to it, but it’s a much better option than allowing gum disease to persist and result in the loss of your teeth. We can offer you a local anesthetic to help make this whole procedure more bearable and less painful for you. You will still feel your gums bleed some when our tools touch your sensitive gums – it’s inevitable.
What Happens During Scraping?
Our team uses a wide range of advanced equipment and techniques while performing scraping procedures. You can be sure that we always rely upon the latest high-tech tools and protocols available to ensure a comfortable, rewarding experience. Above all else, we want you to leave your appointment feeling more confident about the future of your mouth.
Can You Scrape Your Teeth at Home?
Many people have DIY mindsets and like to handle as much of their oral care at home. It is always a good idea for you to take your health seriously and do everything you can to keep your teeth and gums their best. This includes flossing, brushing, and, if your dentist recommends it, using a water pik or mouth rinse. However, you cannot do at-home scraping in San Antonio, TX. This procedure should only be performed by a trained dentist.
Will You Have to Undergo Scraping More Than Once?
Some patients who suffer from gum disease only require one scraping appointment in their lifetimes. Others may need scaping occasionally. Your situation will depend on a number of factors, including if you stop going to treatment and your gum disease worsens. As a side note, your initial scraping appointment may be divided into a few appointments if you have an extensive buildup of plaque and tartar.
Of course, you can take some preventative steps to reduce the risk of requiring scraping more than once. First, always brush and floss in the morning and evening. Secondly, keep your dental appointments and see your dentist twice a year. Finally, call your dentist at the first sign of any changes in your mouth, such as swollen gums, red gums, bleeding gums, or constant bad breath. Staying on top of your dental needs can help you reduce the number of deep cleans you need.
Have Questions About Deep Cleaning and Scraping in San Antonio, TX?
If you have any questions about this deep cleaning process, make sure you give us a call and set up an appointment, so we can answer them for you today. Doing so will put your mind at ease and get your oral health back on track.
You can contact our office by San Antonio, TX any time by calling (210) 794-7747. You do not need a referral from another doctor. Just let us know if you think you might have gum disease. Our knowledgeable team can examine you. It is always better to take care of gum disease early rather than wait too long to tackle this manageable condition.
Our doctor, Andrew J. Weber, DMD, MS, is willing and ready to give you all the information you need to start your dental implant journey and schedule your consultation today!
