Scaling and Root Planing Risks
The scaling and root planing procedure is highly effective in treating periodontal disease, especially in its early stages and has very few associated risks, which is why it is such a popular treatment option. Though uncommon, there is a small risk of developing an infection in the gum tissue due to bacteria entering the bloodstream. If this occurs, patients may develop swelling, pain, or a mild fever. Patients with impaired immune systems or other underlying health issues may be prescribed antibiotic treatment to reduce their risk of developing complications.
When considering the risks involved in having the scaling and root planing procedure, it may be helpful to compare those risks to the risks involved in not having this procedure performed. When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause serious and very painful oral health issues to develop. In fact, because gum disease is so common, affecting nearly half of all Americans, it is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Untreated periodontal disease can also increase your risk of developing infections, cause your gums to become swollen and bleed easily, cause cavities to develop, and increase your sensitivity to certain types of foods and beverages.
If concern over the risk of experiencing pain is preventing you from scheduling an appointment for a scale and root planing procedure, talk to your periodontist about dental sedation. In general, dental sedation is avoided if possible, as there are mild chances of complications that can occur when sedation is administered, however the likelihood of complications developing are very small, so talk to your periodontist about what options are available and best suited to your needs, especially if this may mean the difference between you having this procedure performed or not.
Remember the Benefits Outweigh the Risks
As you consider the small risks involved in having the scaling and root planing procedure performed, it is important to consider the following benefits that you will enjoy by having this procedure performed:
- Improves the health and appearance of your gums, restoring them back to a healthy, pink color
- May correct chronic halitosis that can develop due to periodontal disease
- May prevent periodontal disease from developing again
- Reduces your risk of gum recession, cavities, tooth loss and other oral health complications that can occur due to advanced periodontal disease
- Procedure is relatively painless and can often be completed in one appointment
- Saves you money in the long run by avoiding the need for more intensive intervention due to periodontal disease progressing
If you are still undecided about whether you need a scale and root planing procedure and/or are concerned about the risks involved in having this procedure performed, schedule an appointment with your periodontist to share your concerns. They can provide you with additional information about the benefits of this procedure and the potential consequences of not having it performed and discuss alternative treatment options, such as modifying your oral health routine or making changes to your dietary and lifestyle habits.