Scale and Root Planing Cost

Many elements can make up a scale and root planing procedure. First, let us look at why you might need such a procedure, the procedure itself, and the options throughout the procedure based on the condition of your mouth.

Why Do You Need Scale and Root Planing?

Each of us, every day, naturally generates bacteria and plaque in our mouths. A clear, sticky substance that adheres to your teeth, plaque collects the bacteria, sugars, and acids that are always present in our mouths. If allowed to remain on the teeth, the plaque attacks the enamel immediately, resulting in cavities. It is for this reason that the health industry strongly suggests you brush twice a day. It is to keep up with and maintain the plaque by removing it daily. If you do not practice this simple task or do a poor job brushing, the plaque will progress to the gum line. Now the plaque immediately infects the soft tissue of the gum, causing gum disease. If you have allowed this to occur, the only way to stop gum disease and reverse it is to eliminate the sole source, which is the plaque on your teeth below the gum line. This is what deep scaling and root planing are.

The Scale and Root Planing Procedure and the Costs Involved

Traditional teeth cleaning can begin at $75 to $200. This is something you should have done twice a year. If you have not done so, then that might be the initial step to your deeper scaling. The same hand-held tool is used to scrape the plaque deliberately and manually off each tooth. Sometimes an ultrasonic tool can be used with a vibrating head that chips away the plaque and stubborn tartar. There may have been X-rays taken to identify any damage under the surface. That can add $25 to $250. If the procedure is tedious, it may be necessary to numb the soft tissue with a local anesthetic. This additional component begins at $300. Again, if your case is extreme, it could be beneficial to add antibiotic injections to promote the healing process. This can cost $30 to $90 per tooth. So, when it is all said and done, the scaling and root planing procedure can cost as little as $400 or add up to $4,000 for your entire mouth.

The Benefit of Scale and Root Planing

Gum disease is dreadful. From initial swelling to receding away from the teeth to changing in color to being very tender to the touch, almost half of the adults in America suffer from some stage of gum disease. All are preventable by simply taking more deliberate time at home with your oral hygiene. The benefit of the procedure is quite simply, the only way to reverse gum disease. Once completed, it is a reset point for you to practice good habits at home. Then plan to schedule a preventative exam with your dentist twice a year. X-rays will help you continue to be initiative-taking as well as professional in teeth cleaning. Your teeth, your gums, and most importantly, your smile, will all be grateful that you are taking such small, methodical steps in taking care of your mouth.

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