Gum Disease
Prevent Tooth Loss with Deep Cleaning
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can lead to more than just an unattractive smile—it can result in tooth loss and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious health complications.
If you've been diagnosed with periodontal disease, we will recommend a deep cleaning as the primary treatment. Though it may sound like a more intensive version of a regular teeth cleaning, deep cleanings are considered the gold standard for treating gum disease. This procedure is also referred to as scaling and root planing or periodontal therapy.
In cases of gum disease, unhealthy, swollen gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where infection-causing plaque and tartar build up. During a deep cleaning, the dentist or hygienist removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth and tooth roots. They then smooth the tooth root surfaces, making it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate and easier for the gums to reattach and heal.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, known as gingivitis in its early stages, is caused by harmful bacteria found in plaque that attack the soft tissues in your mouth. Early signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If caught early, we can help reverse the damage. However, if detected later, effective restorative dentistry procedures can restore your mouth’s health and appearance. Regular exams and cleanings, along with specialized treatments, can help prevent and manage gum disease, keeping your teeth and gums strong and disease-free.
Benefits of Deep Cleanings
While deep cleanings don’t cure gum disease, they play a crucial role in slowing or stopping its progression. Deep cleanings help reduce the need for future surgeries and often restore swollen, bleeding gums to a healthy, pink state.
If you have gum disease, we may recommend that deep cleanings, combined with periodontal maintenance checkups, become part of your routine dental visits.
Overview of Periodontal Treatments
Managing gum disease often involves more than just deep cleanings. Periodontal therapy works to enhance the gum tissue that holds your teeth in place. Diseased tissue must be replaced with healthy tissue when possible. In cases of severe gum recession, gum grafting may be needed to reposition gum tissue and cover exposed tooth roots. Additionally, we may use topical antibacterial or antibiotic treatments to target bacterial infections directly.
For patients with advanced or complicated gum disease, a periodontist—a dental specialist in treating gingivitis, periodontal disease, and other soft tissue conditions—may be necessary. A periodontist undergoes additional specialized training after completing a general dental degree. They work alongside your dentist to create a treatment plan to prevent further damage and improve your gum health.