Scaling and Root Planing

If you don’t visit the dentist twice a year, or brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis, the dental plaque that accumulates from the foods you eat will begin to harden on the teeth and turn into tartar. Excessive tartar buildup may cause gums to recede, eventually leading to an aggressive form of periodontal disease called periodontitis. To treat periodontitis, Dr. Martin Urban, DDS will need to perform scaling and root planing.

Teeth scaling and root planing causes very little discomfort and can be completed in one single visit. During the teeth scaling process, Dr. Martin Urban, DDS will numb the gums and tooth roots with local anesthesia. He will then use special tools to remove the hardened deposits of tartar from the teeth both above and below the gum line. Root planing involves detailed scaling of the root surface to decrease inflammation of the gum tissue. After this procedure is complete, you will need to maintain proper oral care habits to prevent accumulation from returning.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640. 

Periodontal Disease: Gingivitis

If you don’t maintain an adequate oral care routine, your gums will begin to develop gingivitis. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and though it’s reversible, prevention is important. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the infection of the tissues that surround the teeth and is caused by a buildup of plaque. Healthy gums are firm, and pale pink in color, if they are any other color, it’s important to visit Dr. Martin Urban, DDS to get the problem under control.

Bacteria will cause an inflammation of the gums and is usually left on the teeth from dental plaque. Dental plaque accrues after eating foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates. Because bacteria thrive in a warm environment, it’s important to brush the teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to keep them clean. If you spit a little blood in the sink while doing so, know that gingivitis is reversible if you can maintain flossing for at least seven days. Additionally, it’s important to schedule professional cleanings twice a year to prevent periodontal disease from becoming worse.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640.