Gum disease is often caused by plaque accumulation due to poor oral hygiene, which is why it can be treated effectively in its initial stages through a deep teeth cleaning. The objective of this non-surgical procedure is to remove etiologic agents such as dental plaque, tartar, or calculus, which cause gingival inflammation and disease.
Dentistry at Kennestone's professional staff performs these treatments as a preventative measure and for patients with severe periodontal disease. If that’s your case and you wish to recover your optimal oral health, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Deep Teeth Cleaning and What Processes Does It Entail?
Deep teeth cleaning is a more extensive dental cleaning procedure than common prophylaxis. During this time, Dr. Foxhall will remove plaque and tartar accumulation surrounding your teeth, between spaces, and even inside gum pockets, going in-depth to ensure your mouth is healthy and clean.
For this reason, our deep teeth cleaning periodontal treatment starts with thoroughly examining the mouth. We will take x-rays and visually examine your mouth.
Depending on the condition of the gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, Dr. Foxhall may recommend scaling and root planning. In some cases, local anesthesia may be used during the procedure to ensure your comfort.
Scaling
Scaling aims to remove calculus and plaque attached to the tooth surfaces. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. It is performed with a special dental tool called an ultrasonic scaling tool.
The scaling tool usually includes an irrigation process that can deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums to help reduce oral bacteria.
Root Planing
Root planing is performed to remove cementum and surface dentin that is embedded with unwanted microorganisms, toxins, and tartar. During it, the tooth's root is smoothed, which promotes healing and helps prevent bacteria from easily colonizing in the future.
Further Treatment Options
Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, Dr. Foxhall may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planning. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.
When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it can be difficult to remove plaque and tartar thoroughly. Oftentimes, patients can simply recover their oral health with deep teeth cleaning. However, in certain cases, the deep pockets between teeth and gums may need surgery to ensure they remain clean and plaque-free.
What Are the Benefits of Prompt Periodontal Treatment?
If treatment is successful, scaling and planning may have several benefits, the main one being enjoying a smile free of gum disease.
This helps reduce bad breath caused by food particles and bacteria in the oral cavity. Additionally, during scaling and planning, superficial stains on the teeth will be removed, adding an extra bonus to the procedures.
Another benefit of treatment is protecting teeth against tooth loss. The risk for periodontal disease increases when gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth. As pockets deepen, more bacteria can colonize, eventually causing a chronic inflammatory response by the body to destroy gingival and bone tissue, leading to tooth loss.
Lastly, scaling and planning can positively impact overall health. Research has proven that bacteria from periodontal infections can travel through the bloodstream and affect other areas of the body, sometimes causing heart and respiratory diseases. Scaling and root planning remove bacteria that cause these conditions.
Recover Your Dental Health with a Deep Teeth Cleaning
Gum disease is a dangerous condition that can put your oral—and overall—health at risk. While it can be mainly prevented with good oral hygiene habits, certain patients can be more prone to this condition, be it for genetic or circumstantial reasons, like smoking.
If this is your case, prompt treatment is the main strategy for recovering your oral health. Contact Dentistry at Kennestone and prevent further damage.
