If it has been longer than 6 months since your last professional cleaning, you run the risk of developing periodontal or gum disease. We all naturally accumulate deposits of plaque and calculus. Over time, these deposits grow and extend below the gum line, eventually leading to bone loss and deep pockets around the teeth. Once this occurs, a simple cleaning is no longer sufficient. Instead periodontal treatment, or a deep cleaning is required.
For periodontal treatment, anesthetic administration is usually necessary in order to keep you comfortable while we remove the build-up below the gums. In addition to removing these deposits, we use special instruments to scale and smooth the root surface, making it less likely for plaque and calculus to attach in the future. Deep cleanings are usually accomplished in two visits, focusing on one half of the mouth at each appointment.
What to expect after the procedure: Expect your gums to be slightly sore for a day or two. This is best managed with over-the-counter pain medications like Ibuprofen or Tylenol. Bleeding when brushing and flossing is normal, and should subside within a week. Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, we may prescribe an anti-bacterial mouthrinse, which when used as directed, will help to establish good oral health.
On successful completion of your deep cleaning, you will need to schedule follow-up cleanings more frequently than the usual six-month cleaning routine. Because you suffer from bone loss, the deep pockets that surround your teeth accumulate plaque more readily and need to be cleaned more frequently. We also need to monitor the status of your periodontal disease, and evaluate if further treatment is indicated.
Unlike a deep cleaning, periodontal maintenance is completed in one appointment, and anesthetic will only be used selectively, if at all. The overall health of your gums will be evaluated for improvement and oral hygiene will be discussed.
What to expect after the procedure: Expect your gums to be slightly sore for a day or two. This is best managed with over-the-counter pain medications like Ibuprofen or Tylenol. Bleeding when brushing and flossing is normal, and should subside within a week.
With today’s array of sophisticated and modern dental technology even the most challenging smiles can be transformed into ones that dazzle. We use the most advanced techniques to provide all our patients with outstanding results! Come check us out today!
