What is Periodontal Cleaning?
A periodontal cleaning goes beyond a standard routine cleaning, addressing buildup both above and below the gum line. While routine cleanings only remove surface plaque and tartar, a deep cleaning targets accumulations beneath the gum line.
This process involves two key treatments: scaling and root planing. Scaling uses specialized dental tools to clean the gingival pockets where regular brushing and flossing can’t reach, removing tartar and bacteria to halt the spread of infection. Root planing follows, smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth to prevent future buildup and allowing your gum tissue to reattach securely to your teeth.
A topical anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. By thoroughly cleaning and smoothing, a deep cleaning helps prevent the progression of gum disease and supports the long-term health of your smile.
Why Do I Need a Deep Cleaning?
Gum disease, though preventable, is quite common and often results from inadequate oral hygiene. When plaque is not regularly removed, it hardens into tartar, creating an ideal environment for bacteria. This bacteria irritates and infects your gum tissue, leading to symptoms like swelling, redness, and bleeding. If left untreated, it can cause pockets to form in the gum tissue near the teeth roots, trapping more tartar and bacteria, which can damage the supporting structures of your teeth.
Not everyone requires a deep cleaning; it is specifically recommended for patients with gum disease. Additionally, it can serve as a preventive measure to stop the infection from recurring. This nonsurgical procedure helps halt the spread of bacteria, preventing irreversible damage to the supporting structures of your teeth and reducing the risk of tooth loss. It also helps protect your overall health by preventing bacteria from entering your bloodstream.
Following your initial deep cleaning, we might suggest repeating the procedure every three months to maintain gum health. We will develop a personalized treatment plan to help safeguard your smile against gum disease.
