When Do You Need A Deep Cleaning?

In our last blog, we explained the value of a checkup, including the dental cleaning portion. But what if you have risk factors or warning signs for gingivitis or gum disease? To restore health to your smile, you may need a scaling and root planing procedure, also known as a deep cleaning. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist will explain what to expect from the procedure.

The Causes of Poor Gum Health

Periodontal disease could mean uncomfortable symptoms and eventually, a higher risk of tooth loss. The disease starts as inflammation, also known as gingivitis, which could be caused by cigarettes and tobacco use, poor brushing and flossing habits, plaque buildup, inflammatory illnesses, certain medications, or a family history of poor gum health. Unless treated, this could impact the stability of your smile and make simple preventive actions like brushing and flossing a comfortable experience , further threatening your oral health.

Potential Symptoms

People with inflammation or the early stages of periodontal disease may report sore gums that appear redder than usual. Bleeding when brushing and flossing is common too. At this stage, we suggest an appointment right away. In the gingivitis stage, we can reverse the inflammation completely. However, once periodontal disease forms there is no cure, but routine care can be administered to prevent the advanced stage, known as periodontitis, which leads to tooth loss unless prevented or properly managed.

The Deep Cleaning

The process, also known as a scaling and root planing, involves using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to break up and remove all plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of both the teeth and the roots as well. For minor cases, this could take only one visit. However, severe buildup could mean two to four visits. After we remove the buildup, we polish the teeth thoroughly. The process helps reverse gingivitis, and could also begin the process of managing gum disease to avoid worsening discomfort and tooth loss.

Aftercare

We will provide detailed instructions for caring for smiles from home, and also suggest a routine cleaning every three to four months to control plaque buildup and tartar. If you have any questions about preventing issues liked periodontal disease, or when to seek care at our office, then please contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy optimal oral health in 2021 and beyond, so you can always smile with confidence!

Talk To Your Cleveland, TX Dentist’s Office About Avoiding Gum Disease

Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX uses preventive care to help protect the smile and avoid painful complications. To find out more about our approach to preventing periodontal health issues, contact our office at (281) 592-1234 to schedule your appointment today.