Gum treatment is also known as periodontal root planing and scaling or a “Deep Cleaning”. This procedure is needed when the gums become infected and the bacteria has begun to eat away at the bone that supports the teeth and causing the gums to be inflamed. If left untreated, teeth will become mobile and eventually fall out.

Picture A shows the bone level of someone with healthy gums. Picture B shows how periodontal disease has affected the bone level, leaving teeth very unstable in the bone.

Having periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your teeth though. It has an effect on your entire body including your heart. Per the American Heart Association, scientists have identified biologic factors, such as chronic inflammation, that independently link periodontal disease to the development or progression of cardiovascular disease in some patients.

So what is the difference between a deep cleaning and a regular cleaning? A regular cleaning removes surface stains and supra gingival bacteria and plaque. If you get your teeth cleaned every six months and brush and floss daily, this type of cleaning is sufficient.

However, if periodontal disease is present, the main problem is UNDER the gums. The calculus, tartar, and bacteria reside below the visible part of the teeth.  Therefore the hygienist must go beneath the gums and remove all of the harmful build up and bacteria that has been quietly accumulating over the years. By doing this, the gums should heal and tighten around the teeth, reducing the pockets around them that gather and harvest the harmful bacteria that cause bone and tooth loss.

Gum treatment is typically done in 2 visits, one visit for each side of your mouth. Because we are going under the gums and working around the tooth’s root, you will need to be numb for this procedure so you can remain comfortable.  Some mild tenderness is common after the procedure for a day or two, but taking any over the counter pain reliever is usually all that is needed.

Once your gums have been treated and the bacteria has been removed, consistent dental cleanings and proper home care are crucial in order to prevent the need for another deep cleaning in the future. Because you have already lost bone around the teeth, your gums are more susceptible to trapping harmful bacteria and becoming inflamed. Therefore, it is recommended that you have your teeth cleaned 3-4 times a year to eliminate as much as tartar build up, bacteria, and inflammation as possible.

If you want to keep your natural teeth for as long as possible, the most important and effective step you can take is to get your gums healthy and keep them healthy. Dentures may seem to be the cheap and easy way around having to get your gums healthy but once your natural teeth are gone, your life will drastically change. A few things being your diet, your social activities, and your appearance (over the years your bone will shrink and cause your face to look more sunken in and give you an older appearance).

Only you can take charge of your oral health and choose whether or not to keep your natural teeth throughout your entire life. You deserve a healthy, functional, beautiful smile. Why not start today?

We are always happy to answer any of your questions. Please call us at 904-641-0944 if you need any further information or to schedule an appointment!