The CDC estimates that nearly half of adults in the US have gum disease — a shocking number when you consider the serious health effects of the condition, including heart attack and stroke. Are you dealing with red, swollen, bleeding gums? Dr. Virginia Gregory and her associates provide periodontal cleanings to treat and prevent gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when the bacteria that is naturally present in your mouth is allowed to multiply and dig deep pockets between the teeth and gums. Gum disease causes bad breath and gums that bleed, swell, and feel tender. When it is not treated, the condition can eventually cause the teeth to shift, loosen, and fall out.
What Is a Periodontal Cleaning?
A periodontal cleaning is also sometimes called a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing for gum disease. We use this treatment to clean above and below the gum line, removing the tartar and bacteria buildup that causes gum disease and smoothing the surface of the teeth roots to prevent reinfection.
The periodontal cleaning involves…
- X-rays and exam, during which your dentist or periodontist examines the extent to which gum disease has progressed. Bone and gum recession are evaluated during this portion of the exam, and a treatment plan is put in place.
- Removing plaque tartar from above the gum line, or the supragingival cleaning.
- Using special tools to clean below the gum line, or the subgingival cleaning. This is the most important part of the periodontal cleaning, as it removes bacteria directly from the infection site.
- Root planing, which smooths the root, eliminating any remaining bacteria and making it more difficult for bacteria to reappear.
- Sometimes, the placement of a local antibiotic directly to the infection.
Periodontal Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning
A periodontal cleaning differs from your regular cleaning because it is especially focused on the treatment and prevention of gum disease. During a regular dental cleaning, your dental team will remove biofilm (the combination of plaque and tartar that lives on your teeth) and check for a host of oral health hazards. The focus of your regular cleaning is much broader, and includes preventing gum disease as well as cavities, teeth grinding, malfunctioning dental work, and even oral cancer.
For people dealing with gum disease, we may recommend up to two periodontal cleanings per year in addition to the regular six month checkups and cleanings. With frequent and focused attention to the gums, we can heal and prevent the reoccurrence of gum disease.
What You Can Do to Prevent Gum Disease
Keeping your gums healthy requires more than just periodontal cleanings. Your dental team will talk to you about the importance of good hygiene at home, too.
Prevent the reoccurrence of gum disease by…
- Brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day or after each meal
- Flossing at least daily
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthrinse
- Maintaining a balanced, low-sugar diet
- Staying away from tobacco
Visit Your Dentist in Mount Pleasant Today!
Do you have red, swollen, bleeding gums? Gum disease is nothing unusual — but its prompt treatment is important for your continued health and well-being. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory for a periodontal examination and cleaning today!