We've told you why scaling and root planing are necessary to treat periodontal disease, but you should also know they help reverse the progress of the disease. Scaling and root planing eliminate the source of gum imflammation -- contaminated plaque on your teeth and the roots of your teeth--so your gums can begin to heal.

Here's what each does for you:

Scaling-- A treatment that cleans tartar (hardened calculus and bacteria) from the surfaces of your teeth.

Root planing-- This refers to cleaning the root surfaces -- actually smoothing the outer layers called cementum where bacteria-laden plaque is found.

These treatments are sometimes performed in a series of several appointments with us or we may refer you to someone who specializes in treating periodontal disease. A local anesthetic may be used in the areas we'll be treating. In a few cases, you may be given a prescripton for pain reliever to be taken before the procedure.

It's what you do--proper homecare, healthy diet, regular cleanings and exams--that helps you keep your teeth for a lifetime.

Today is a great time to be orally fit. Why? Because of the technology that can help you maintain a healthy mouth.