A lot of people don’t realize they have a problem with their gums until it’s too late. By then, the damage has been done, and it’s going to be expensive to fix. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If you catch periodontal disease early, there is a very effective and affordable treatment available: deep cleaning.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious bacterial infection of the gums and bones that support the teeth. It is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and can also cause other health problems. If not treated, periodontal disease can lead to:
- Tooth loss
- Infection
- Bone loss
- Inflammation of the gum tissue
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar, which can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can then enter the bloodstream and cause other health problems.
Most people with periodontal disease do not have any symptoms, which is why it is important to see a dentist or dental hygienist regularly. They will be able to detect the early signs of the disease and treat it before it becomes more serious.
What are the types of periodontal disease?
There are two main types of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease. It is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque and can be reversed with good oral hygiene.
- Periodontitis is the more serious form of periodontal disease. It is characterized by the destruction of the gum tissue and bone that support the teeth. This can lead to looseness of the teeth and, eventually, tooth loss. Periodontitis is caused by plaque and tartar and cannot be reversed.
If you think you may have periodontal disease, it is important to see a dentist or dental hygienist as soon as possible. They can diagnose the disease and recommend the best course of treatment.
What are the signs and symptoms of gum disease and periodontitis?
Symptoms of gingivitis include bleeding gums, redness and swelling of the gums, and bad breath. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. Symptoms of periodontitis include receding gums, deep pockets between the teeth and gums and loose teeth. Periodontitis can also cause bone loss. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist or periodontist as soon as possible.
What is the deep cleaning dental procedure?
A deep cleaning dental procedure is necessary when tartar and plaque have built up on your teeth to the point where a standard cleaning is no longer sufficient. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth, and tartar is hardened plaque that has been allowed to remain on the teeth for too long. Over time, these substances can damage your teeth and lead to gum disease.
During a deep cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will use special instruments to remove tartar and plaque from below the gum line, where a standard cleaning cannot reach. This process is sometimes called “scaling and root planing.” Deep cleaning is usually performed in two visits, spaced a few weeks apart.
The second visit is usually scheduled 4 to 6 weeks later. During this visit, the dentist or hygienist will clean any remaining tartar from the first visit and smooth any remaining rough spots on the roots. Deep cleanings are an important part of maintaining good oral health. If you have gum disease, a deep cleaning can help reverse the damage and prevent it from progressing.
Even if you don’t have gum disease, a deep cleaning can help prevent it from developing. If you have gum disease, talk to your dentist about whether a deep cleaning may be right for you.
How frequently should one get the scaling of the teeth done?
It is generally recommended that people have their teeth scaled and polished every six months to prevent tartar build-up. However, scaling and root planing, or dental deep cleaning, is only necessary for patients with early stages of gum disease.
Does repeated scaling damage our teeth?
No, repeated scaling does not damage your teeth. That’s because scaling is done using specialized techniques to remove excess plaque and tartar. Having said that, you should only opt for dental scaling according to your dentist’s recommendations. Overscaling your teeth can lead to the wearing away of enamel.
Is it good to have deep cleaning of teeth at the dentist?
It is good to have deep cleaning of teeth at the dentist because deep cleaning can remove tartar, plaque and stains below the gum line that regular brushing and flossing cannot remove. Having deep cleaning done by a dentist or dental hygienist can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Why is it necessary to visit a dentist?
There are a few reasons why it is important to visit the dentist on a regular basis. One reason is that the dentist can help to prevent cavities from forming. They can also help to catch any problems early before they become serious. Additionally, visiting the dentist can help to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy.
Schedule an appointment for dental deep cleaning near me in Houston
Edge Dental Houston is a state-of-the-art dental clinic specializing in cutting-edge dental treatments to help you maintain optimal oral health. Our dental spa in Houston offers the latest technologies and treatments for periodontal disease and gum disease, including periodontal treatment and deep cleaning treatment.
You can find our dental spa at 15455 Memorial Dr #400 Houston, TX — please schedule an appointment to initiate your deep cleaning procedure.
