When Does Your Smile Need A Periodontal Cleaning?

As we explained in our previous blog, a dental cleaning helps remove plaque and tartar to improve overall oral health, even boosting breath freshness and fighting teeth stains! But what if you have inflammation or the early stages of gum disease? In these situations, your Baxter, MN, dentist may suggest a more thorough treatment with a scaling and root planing!

The Warning Signs of Periodontal Troubles

Gingivitis develops when the gums become irritated and inflammation develops. Causes could include poor oral hygiene, foods high in sugar and starch, cigarettes and tobacco use, inflammatory illnesses or certain medications, or a family history of periodontal issues. People start to experience sore, red gums that bleed easily, and over time this could lead to gum disease. Unless treated or managed, gum disease could mean eroded tissues and jawbone and an increased risk of adult tooth loss.

The Scaling and Root Planing

A deep cleaning, also known as a periodontal cleaning, removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots, reversing gingivitis and managing gum disease. We start by administering an anesthetic or possibly sedation to help you feel calm and relaxed, such as nitrous oxide. We then use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to remove all buildup from the surfaces of the teeth and the roots. Depending on the extent of your buildup, this could take one visit or up to four. Once completed, we polish the teeth for a more attractive appearance. The procedure helps prevent worsening inflammation, safeguard your smile against tooth loss and other oral health complications of untreated periodontal disease.

Better Oral Health Habits at Home

Following this procedure, we may suggest a routine cleaning every three to four months to keep a close eye on your smile and watch for signs of inflammation and disease. At home, you should make sure you brush your teeth when you wake up and before bed for about two minutes each session. You also need to use a fluoride toothpaste when you do! Even more important, make time to floss before bed, which means running the floss tape up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line when you do. Try to avoid tobacco products too! If you have any questions about this procedure, or about keeping your gums healthy, then contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy a whole and healthy smile!

Greenhaven Family Dental Offers Periodontal Treatments

Greenhaven Family Dental wants to help keep your gums healthy to prevent tooth loss and other complications of poor periodontal health. To learn more about preventing and managing gum disease, then you can contact Greenhaven Family Dental in Baxter, MN at 218-454-0523.