To remove tartar buildup on the teeth, curettage, a specific and extremely effective treatment, is performed. Curettage is ideal for correcting various periodontal problems, and with this treatment the gingiva is also scraped and polished.
But in detail, what is curettage? When is it advisable to do it? And how is the treatment carried out? We find out in this article.
What is curettage?
Curettage is a treatment for the removal of tartar. It is particularly indicated if periodontitis is present. This treatment involves the total removal of tartar from the gum pockets using a dedicated instrument.
Curettage is performed with anesthesia; in any case, it is not a particularly painful or invasive treatment.
When is curettage recommended?
Of course, it is a good idea to visit the dentist periodically, so that you can always keep an eye on the condition of your teeth and prevent any problems.
In fact, it should be known that periodontal problems, in the early stages, do not involve any particular symptoms. That is why it is essential to be examined by a specialist who will be able to detect the possible presence of the problem so that it can be remedied immediately.
Therefore, curretage should be performed whenever periodontal disease is present.
What are the benefits of curettage?
Curettage is a very important treatment that can improve the health of teeth and gums.
Of course, the main advantage of the treatment concerns the removal of tartar, which, in the long run, can cause infection and inflammation. We can therefore say that curettage, unlike tooth cleaning, is an extremely deeper treatment.
Another obvious benefit is that curettage improves the aesthetics of the teeth, giving a better smile. In addition, thanks to this treatment, breath will also be significantly fresher and cleaner.
Finally, it significantly reduces the risk of tooth loss, improving tooth stability and giving overall well-being that also helps prevent possible cardiovascular disease. The treatment does not produce any side effects; usually after the gums have receded there may be a strong sensitivity of the teeth, but this is completely normal and is something that disappears within a few days.
Curettage, how is it performed and how often is it done?
Curettage is a treatment that is performed under local anesthesia. It can be performed using two techniques, mechanical sanding to remove plaque and the use of laser, which is able to remove subgingival tartar.
It is usually advisable to undergo treatment twice a year, with the goal of preventing any problems and improving the stability of the teeth. Of course, it will be one's own dentist who will advise when to carry out the treatment, which is why it is essential to have periodic checkups.
As we have anticipated, the procedure is absolutely not painful and is minimally invasive. Of course, once the anesthesia wears off, the patient may experience some discomfort, which, however, resolves within a short time.
What to do after the treatment?
As soon as the treatment is over, you may need to take painkillers, precisely because when the anesthesia wears off you will feel pain.
Of course, you will need to strictly follow your dentist's advice. As a rule, after treatment, it is best not to take hot food, rinse your mouth after every meal, brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and avoid smoking.