How a Professional Deep Cleaning Treats Gum Disease

Professional dental cleanings are vital for healthy teeth and gums and to remove harmful buildup. However, professional cleanings alone may not be enough to treat gum disease. If your dentist detects signs of gum disease, they may recommend a deep dental cleaning.

To maintain a healthy smile, a deep clean should be scheduled at least twice a year. Your dentist will inspect your mouth for signs of tooth decay and gum disease. This process will also remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Professional cleanings ensure overall healthier teeth and gums.

What Is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that begins in the gums and spreads to surrounding soft tissues. The infection causes inflammation, and the gums can pull away from the teeth forming pockets where germs can hide and create further damage.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, sensitive teeth, receding gums, and persistent bad breath that won't go away with ordinary hygiene practices. Some patients experience no symptoms at all, making regular checkups crucial to catching the disease before it causes significant damage. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and jawbone degradation. 

What Happens During Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure that involves the removal of plaque and tartar from all surfaces of the teeth, both above and below the gum line, including areas around crowns and fillings. Scaling is the removal of the hard deposits of calculus which can only be removed by the dentist, while patients typically handle it at home through brushing and flossing. Root planing cleans and smoothes the root surfaces to prevent bacteria from growing in the pockets around the roots of the teeth.

By performing deep cleanings regularly after regular examinations and cleanings, you will keep your teeth and gums healthy and free of disease. When patients are dealing with more severe gum disease that requires surgical intervention, our dentist may recommend more frequent deep cleanings and other treatments. However, with regular care, you can reduce the need for more intensive treatment and keep your teeth healthy for life.

Deep cleanings are performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Patients may experience some soreness following the procedure but should notice the improvement in their dental health when appropriate home dental care is completed daily. 

Please reach out to our dental practice in Kansas City, KS, to have a consultation with our dentists, Dr. Moreno and Dr. Tejada. Please call us at (913) 647-1900 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.