October 19, 20178 yr No, it's not a gardening thing. If you smoked for a long time, you may also be dealing with dental/periodontal issues like dreaded plaque under your guns that has to be excavated in the periodontal procedure named in the title. Now that it's over (phase one of two, anyway) I can convince myself it wasn't so bad. During the event, real-time, thought I was going to pass out. Also have to tone down the memories of it so I don't chicken out from scheduling phase two. All in all, if it turns out that this is the biggest price I have to pay for smoking all those years, I would be a lucky person indeed. Mouth, ear, nose still numb. Drooling is SO unattractive... keeping a tissue handy...
October 19, 20178 yr I'm not familiar with the phrase "root planning" but I did have to have some gum surgery years ago due to periodontal disease. I don't remember much as they had me on some pretty good drugs during the procedure but it's always the healing afterward that's most difficult in my opinion. That was followed up with some bone grafting on my lower jaw some time later - another treat :o And yes - OMG, the expense!
October 19, 20178 yr Is that the same as ultrasonic cleaning? I had that done after quitting. They did it in quadrants (4 separate appointments)! You're well on your way to a happier, healthier life PT. Keep up the good work!
October 19, 20178 yr Author Thanks, guys. Not sure about ultra sonic but it was ultra terrifying. It's being done in 2 halves, not quadrants. Thank God!
October 20, 20178 yr Periodontal Disease all but disappeared within 18 months of quitting. Sarge had the "deep cleaning root planing" thing and was headed for the surgery where they cut your gums to expose the roots at the jawbone in order to clean 'em out. There is now ZERO indication of active disease ... although there is permanent bone loss in the x-ray record and visibly receded gumline. Other than that they're pink, perfect, and no active disease. Been that way almost 5 years. Doc told Sarge the best thing he could do is quit. He was right. EZPZ
October 20, 20178 yr Author Periodontal Disease all but disappeared within 18 months of quitting. Sarge had the "deep cleaning root planing" thing and was headed for the surgery where they cut your gums to expose the roots at the jawbone in order to clean 'em out. There is now ZERO indication of active disease ... although there is permanent bone loss in the x-ray record and visibly receded gumline. Other than that they're pink, perfect, and no active disease. Been that way almost 5 years. Doc told Sarge the best thing he could do is quit. He was right. EZPZ That's good to hear, Sarge. Thanks!
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