Root Planing
Dear Dr. John,
I am forty two years old and only have a few fillings and no crowns. I was transferred to California from Washington State by my employer, my new dentist informed me I have gum disease and will need root planing cleaning. When I asked her how much the cleaning would cost she told me $1050. I know the cost of living in California is high but that’s ridiculous, what is the going rate, will I lose my teeth if I don’t get it done?
Shawn- Redwood City
Shawn you are not alone with your malady, it is estimated that 90% of the world adult population has some form of gum disease. Periodontal diseases, including gingivitis and peridontitis, are serious oral infections that, left untreated can lead to premature tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection involving the gums and the underlying bone around the roots of your teeth. The mildest form of gum disease is called gingivitis. Swollen and reddened gums that bleed easily when you brush are prime symptoms of gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused by the accumulation of bacteria in dental plaque. Plaque is a sticky film that collects around your teeth. The recommended treatment for gingivitis is a professional cleaning, along with a good home oral hygiene regimen. With proper brushing and flossing, it is possible to be disease free in as little as a week!
Left untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. Plaque left undisturbed, calcifies creating “tarter” or calculus, which can form below or above the gums. Calculus is irritating to the gums and causes swelling and inflammation. More importantly, bacteria will continue to collect on the calculus releasing toxins, these toxins eventually breakdown the supporting tissues around your teeth, including the bone holding your roots in place. As you lose supporting bone, your teeth loosen, and if not treated will eventually require extraction.
The main cause of periodontal disease is bacteria found in dental plaque. However, there are additional risk factors that you should be aware of.
1. Smoking 5. Poor nutrition
2. Pregnancy and Puberty 6. Medications
3. Stress 7. Diabetes
4. Clenching and grinding your teeth 8. Immune diseases
Anyone exhibiting any of these risk factors should take additional steps to protect their teeth and gums. I recommend professional cleanings 3-4 times a year. You raised the question of costs; root planing is not a routine polishing that one might have done every six months in conjunction with their check-up. Full mouth root planning is an extremely labor intensive procedure and generally is preformed in two appointments, with each appointment being approximately two hours in length. I don’t think the $1050 fee you were quoted was not out of the normal fee range for four hours of a dental professional’s time.
Better smiles for all.
John J. Russo DDS
