Scaling Is a Simple Way to Treat Gum Disease, Dentist Says

Solana Beach, California, July 10, 2017 - A dentist in the Del Mar area explains that scaling is a common way to treat excessive plaque buildup and gum disease. Despite the fact that the treatment is common, not many patients are familiar with what exactly scaling is.

Scaling is simply a more involved cleaning of the affected area in which a dentist in the La Jolla area cleans below the gum line in order to remove plaque build-up. Scaling is often combined with root planing in a simple procedure commonly referred to as “deep cleaning.”

Scaling is necessary when the gum tissue does not fit tightly around the tooth and allows plaque to enter. Plaque fills the deeper pockets, causing gum disease and bad breath.

A dentist can choose to use a dental scaler and curette which is a thin metal tool that is inserted below the gum line. The dentist then scrapes away plaque that cannot reached by merely brushing and flossing. Another option for scaling is using ultrasonic equipment. This instrument has a vibrating metal tip that chips away at plaque while a spray of cool water washes out the pocket.

A local anesthetic is sometimes used to numb the area that is being treated during scaling to reduce any potential discomfort. After scaling the dentist might recommend using desensitizing toothpaste and a mouthwash that helps keep the gums clean.

To schedule an appointment or consultation with an award winning dentist in the San Diego area, call Solana Family Dental at (858) 345-1960.

About Solana Family Dental

Solana Family Dental is a mother-daughter team consisting of Dr. Sandler and Dr. Kauffman. Both have been named Top Dentist in San Diego multiple times by San Diego Magazine and they are dedicated to improving their patients’ smiles using state of the art techniques. They proudly offer alternative techniques for procedures to make sure that each patient gets the comprehensive and comfortable care they deserve.