If you need a deep cleaning is an excellent therapeutic measure and a significant step toward healthy teeth and gums. It helps remove plaque and tartar that can cause and worsen gum disease. If you have gum disease, schedule a deep cleaning today at Affordable Family Dental!
What is Periodontics?
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry specializing in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. Periodontal disease or gum disease is a severe infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth.
There are three stages of gum disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is characterized by inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Advanced periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease and can result in bone loss and tooth loss.
Gum disease is preventable, and regular dental checkups are essential for early detection and treatment.
What are the Gum Disease Symptoms?
You may experience a few of the following signs and symptoms if you have gum disease:
- Gums that are swollen, red, and sensitive
- Gums that bleed when you floss or brush your teeth
- Persistently unpleasant breath
- A modification in the way your teeth bite onto each other
- Missing teeth
- Gum line retreating
Please contact us immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. We can provide the treatment you need to keep your gums healthy.
What is a Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing is a type of periodontal therapy that involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. The deep cleaning helps to treat and prevent gum disease and keeps your teeth healthy.
We usually complete a deep cleaning in two visits. During the first visit, Dr. Dhanoa and the Affordable Family Dental team will clean above and below the gum line. This type of cleaning is known as scaling. Scaling helps to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.
During the second visit, Dr. Dhanoa and the team will clean the roots of your teeth. This type of cleaning is called root planing. Root planing helps to smooth out the roots of your teeth so that plaque and tartar can’t build up as quickly.
What are the Benefits of a Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning has many benefits, including:
- Preventing tooth loss
- Reducing gum inflammation
- Reducing gum bleeding
- Reducing the size of gum pockets
- Improving your overall oral health
How Often Do I Need a Deep Cleaning From a Periodontist?
If you have periodontal disease, you may need deep cleaning every 3 to 6 months. This will help keep the infection under control and prevent it from worsening.
How Often Should I See a Periodontist?
You should see a periodontist at least once a year for a regular dental checkup. If you have gum disease, you may need to see a periodontist more often to receive treatment.
Tips for Good Oral Hygiene at Home
Good oral hygiene is essential for preventing gum disease. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth and gums healthy:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily
- Drink lots of water
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque
- Eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary snacks
- Quit smoking and tobacco use as they can increase your gum disease risk
- See Dr. Dhanoa approximately every six months for a checkup and cleaning
Excellent Deep Cleaning and Periodontal Treatment in Tumwater and Olympia, Washington
You’ll be on a path to excellent dental health after your deep cleaning at our periodontal office. We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure the job is done right – and that you’re comfortable throughout the process.