Dental Scaling??

I'd stopped seeing dentists from 99-06 after moving. In 06 I became a patient at a local dentist recommended by friends, and was pleasantly surprised to hear I'd only be needing regular cleanings. This went on for 2 years, the most recent cleaning about 7 months ago. I've moved again, and visited a local dentist today. They tell me I have "pockets", and will not give me a routine cleaning until I pay for a scaling on my molars. I decided to walk out, because I felt like I was totally being "sold". I've since looked into this procedure, and granted, it's legitimate. But, my personal dental care has not changed in 10 years, and this includes flossing. Is this just some new wave method of dental care that my prior dentists were somehow incapable of performing, that I just have to go through with? Or, am I just being "sold"? How can I have had normal visits up to 7 months ago, and now suddenly, with no modification to my routines, my gums are so gravely diseased? Any alternatives?

Dental Scaling??
I'd definitely get another opinion. See another well recommended dentist and see what they say.
Reply:The roots develop build-up, which leads to periodontal disease. I feel for you, as I have had to have these deep cleanings every other year. The pain isn't from the procedure, but the expense. I was shown the effects in my X-rays, prior %26amp; after cleaning, there is a big difference.





Teeth are expensive, if you wish to keep them. No matter how well you take care of your teeth, the older you get the more build-up will happen. You can check around for low-cost dental care in your area, perhaps university dental schools, etc.
Reply:FYI, 75% OF THE AMERICAN ADULT POPULATION HAS GUM DISEASE. THIS IS A WELL ESTABLISHED FACT.


COULD YOU BE ONE OF THESE?


VISIT A PERIODONTIST FOR AN UNBIASED OPINION OF YOUR DENTAL STATUS.
Reply:Same thing happened to me. I had regularly asked my previous dentist to check me for periodontal disease (even though I have good oral hygeine) because my mom and grandmother have it. He told me for years that my teeth and gums looked great. Then I moved and started seeing a new dentist who told me that my gums are in terrible shape and I would need a scaling, despite flossing and brushing and using mouthwash. My insurance paid for most of it, so I had it done. It really asn't a big deal...just a deep cleaning and some antibiotics. And you know what, my gums and mouth felt a lot cleaner afterwards. So, are you getting "sold?" I don't know...maybe. I thought that I was, but I don't regret the scaling. You might notice that you gums bleed and your breath is bad. If so, I would go ahead with the scaling. Some alternatives...I found that the rotodent toohbrush is great (albeit expensive), and I also like the Listerine hitening toothpaste because it has peroxide in it.
Reply:i would get a second opinion. after all, it is your mouth and your pocket. BUT, don't wait to get one. if you do need scaling, it is important to get it soon.
Reply:I feel for you buddy,





I was in the same vote, I went from the age of 18 to 26 without insurance. The dentist who i went to said other than needing braces i looked fine. After i got insurance i went to a dentist a Friend told me about and found i was far from fine. Nearly all my teeth were in need of "root planing" as they called it, that's where they scale deep under the gum line. I had major pockets ranging from 3mm to 11mm. the 11mm pocket needed a graph which meant surgery.





my advice, do get a second opinion but don't be surprised about it. It would be to your benefit to ask another friend for a referral. usually word of mouth is the best way to find a dentist.





hope all will work out
Reply:As adental asst. for 22 years 20 of them have been spent caring for people with periodontal desease. Some Dentists have a difference of opinion in the assesmentof how deep a periodontal pocket should be before referring you to seek a periodontist. Go to a Periodontist he only treats gums and bone support. get an opinion from them and be sure to obtain a copy of your x-rays so you will not be charged again for another set, the are very important to give you the best consultation, and accurate information.

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