A deep cleaning performed by a periodontist goes a long way when it comes to treating periodontal disease.
Gum disease is often the result of poor oral hygiene and not seeing a dentist regularly. In some cases, it can be the result of other factors like genetics or bad habits like smoking.
During a deep cleaning, the periodontist will use a probe to measure your gum pockets. Pockets are spaces between your gums and teeth that are wider than five millimeters. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, everyone should have their gums examined by a dentist at least once a year.
If the dentist detects pockets that are larger than normal, deep cleaning is often the best treatment.
The proper term for deep cleaning is scaling and root planing. This procedure involves getting rid of tartar and plaque from gum pockets and teeth surfaces. This can be done using traditional dentistry tools or ultrasonic instruments.
Scaling and root planing typically requires two visits to the dentist. Follow up appointments are often required to ensure that your gums are healthier and free of pockets.
Once the procedure is over, the gums should be free of tartar and plaque. This normally brings an end to the inflammation and other issues caused by having these things stuck in gum pockets.
You might experience some soreness depending on the type of deep cleaning the periodontist used, but that goes away within a couple of weeks.
If you already have the advanced stages of gum disease, the dentist might recommend follow-up deep cleanings or other treatments.
Once the gums are tartar free, it is up to you to keep them that way by taking proper care of your teeth and gums. Brushing regularly is a must and so is flossing at least once a day.
Regular visits to the dentist are also essential since it gives them a chance to evaluate your teeth and gums to determine if more treatment is needed. It also gives the dentist a chance to clean the teeth and remove any tartar that has accumulated on them.
Most importantly, regular visits to the dentist ensure that any developing issues are detected early on before serious damage occurs. For example, a dentist may identify redness in the mouth or throat that can indicate oral cancer.
While it is much easier to treat the earlier stages of gum disease, a deep cleaning can be effectively used to treat the more advanced stages. Thanks to modern dentistry tools, the procedure is simpler than ever.
It is a straightforward procedure that can bring you fast relief and prevent your natural teeth from falling out.
Call our office if you have tender gums or have any other dental issue. The faster we provide treatment, the more likely we are to save your smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.torreyhillsperio.com or call Torrey Hills Periodontal Group at (858) 925-1188 for an appointment in our San Diego office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Periodontics in San Diego, CA.
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