Scale and Root Planing Risks
Scale and root planing, also referred to as a deep cleaning, is a nonsurgical dental procedure performed under local anesthesia to eradicate gum disease. As with most treatments, there are some risks associated with scale and root planing but they are minimal in comparison to the impact untreated periodontal disease can have on your oral and systemic health. Your dentist will discuss the treatment as well as any possible side effects before scheduling you for the procedure.
What risks are associated with scale and root planing?
While they are not common, there are a few risks with scale and root planing treatment. Some include:
- Reaction to anesthetic: It is important to make sure your dentist is up to date with your current medical history including any diagnosed conditions and all medications, including supplements. This way they will know what type of anesthetic is best for you and lessen the chance of any negative reactions.
- Post-treatment symptoms: A couple of things you may experience immediately after treatment include bleeding during brushing and flossing and inflammation in the gum tissue but all should subside within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication can ease discomfort and a warm saltwater rinse can be used to keep your open gum pockets clean and soothe the affected tissue.
- Exposed root surfaces: Gum recession is a result of tartar accumulation on the root surfaces and when the tartar is removed from teeth that have suffered gum recession, the root surfaces become exposed. Exposed roots can then become very sensitive and need further treatment to repair the receded gum tissue.
- Increased tooth sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, and sugar is common with periodontal disease and can intensify after scale and root planing. Oral care products that contain fluoride and are formulated for sensitivity can be very helpful in minimizing discomfort. As your gum tissue heals closer to the teeth, sensitivity should improve. If sensitivity does not resolve, you may need further treatment.
- Tooth mobility or loss: In extreme cases, the prolonged build-up of plaque can actually be all that is holding a tooth in place. When the plaque is removed, the tooth can become mobile and could even be lost. Your dentist can recommend treatment to replace a tooth with a restorative option like a dental bridge or implant. Leaving plaque to hold a tooth in place only compromises the integrity of the jaw bone and neighboring teeth.
It is important to understand the proposed treatment and the impact it can have. If any of these risks are of concern to you, speak with your dentist about other treatment options to restore the health of your mouth. Allowing periodontal disease to go untreated will only compromise your overall health, it does not go away on its own and the risks of not receiving treatment greatly outweigh the risks of scale and root planing and can lead to bigger problems down the road.