03
Sep
Supporting the health of the gums that support your teeth! FAQs about nonsurgical Scaling and Root Planing
At Alpine Family Dental in Kalispell, Montana, our team is dedicated to enhancing the health and beauty of our patients’ smiles. We achieve this through procedures like scaling and root planing to improve gum health.
Why are the gums so important?
Your gums help to protect and support your teeth. They are among those periodontal tissues (or periodontium) that hold the teeth in place. Since they surround the teeth, the appearance of the gums also plays a vital role in the overall aesthetics of the smile.
How can my gums become damaged?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Along with tooth decay, these conditions are the primary causes of tooth loss. The build-up of plaque causes gum disease. This bacterial film inflames the gums. Without treatment, plaque releases toxins that break down the gums and the supportive hard tissues or bones in the jaw. Teeth may become loose and fall out without these supportive attachments. Or, teeth will be so damaged that they cannot be saved with root canal therapy or other dental procedures.
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New Patients: (406) 393-8877 | Existing Patients: (406) 752-1107 Book an Appointment
How do you treat damaged gums?
Treatments depend on the severity of the disease. A deep cleaning with Scaling and Root Planing is a conservative way to effectively stop the disease from progressing further. Early-stage inflammation or disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with prompt identification and treatment. Late-stage disease or infection, such as periodontitis, can be prevented. A breakdown of the supportive tissues in the jaw characterizes the latter condition. When these tissues are lost, they are lost for good. More invasive techniques are required to regenerate the gums and bone to restore your health and smile.
What makes SRP a “deep cleaning”?
SRP is an alternative to the standard 6-month professional teeth cleaning or prophylaxis. During a regular cleaning, our hygienists use special dental instruments to remove plaque and its hardened form, tartar, from the teeth and gumline. As a deep cleaning procedure, SRP involves using special tools and techniques to clean underneath the gumline. Toxins tend to collect in the spaces that form as gum disease progresses and the gums pull away from the teeth. This process only worsens things as the periodontal pockets harbor bacteria. Germs also tend to attach to the rough root surfaces of the teeth. So, SRP takes the standard cleaning further by smoothing these rough root surfaces. Bacterial plaque and toxins cannot affix themselves as readily to smooth roots.
How do you prevent gum disease?
The standard cleaning described above is critical, as does good oral care at home. The Alpine Family Dental team will advise you on ways to keep your gums healthy and tailored to your specific needs. We are truly invested in our neighbors’ and friends’ long-term health and wellbeing in Kalispell, MT. Call (406) 393-8877 before you spot signs of a problem with your gums, such as swelling, tenderness, and bleeding. The best time to visit us is when your mouth is healthy or at least free of symptoms – we strive to keep it that way!
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Dr. Evan Olson, D. ABDSM, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dentist. He completed his degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience at Montana State University in Bozeman and then attended The University of Iowa College of Dentistry. Dr. Olson then practiced in a Community Health setting for five years treating all types of dental emergencies. He then ran a private practice in Central Oregon for seven years before moving back to Montana to take over Alpine Family Dental.
Dr. Olson was recently named a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, which signifies extensive training and knowledge in treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea and snoring. He is a Fellow of The Implant Pathway Surgical Program, a Member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry, and a Mentor for the CEREC Doctors training program. He has completed significant continuing education in many areas of dentistry including with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Mastery Program, training on dental implants at Implant Pathway, Misch Institute, and Pikos Institute, an internship on root canals at the University of Iowa, cosmetic dentistry courses at CDOCS and Spear Education, and further studies on infant frenectomy and CAD/CAM techniques.
Dr. Autumn Chapman received her degree in physiology from the University of Wyoming and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. She worked alongside her grandfather, Dr. Gerald Olson, in Havre, MT, before moving to Flathead Valley. Dr Chapman has been able to focus on education and training in facial esthetics and cosmetic dentistry. She has Training in orthodontics using suresmile clear aligners with CDOCs in Scottsdale and Training in Botox and filler with the american academy of facial esthetics.
Dr. Greg Eller obtained his degree in Aeronautical Maintenance and spent six years as a Skydiving Instructor. He then attended the University of Oregon where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in Pre-Medicine and the Oregon Health Sciences University Dental School. He is a member of the American Dental Association and Montana Dental Association and has IV moderate sedation training. After 14 years at Alpine Family Dental, Dr. Eller has now transitioned out of full-time practice.
