Deep Cleaning

PERIODONTAL CLEANING

From a deep dental cleaning to surgery, there are several options for treating periodontal disease. The treatment plan depends largely on the severity of the gum disease. The goal of periodontal disease treatment is to get rid of disease-causing bacteria and stop the progress of the disease. The American Academy of Periodontists stresses that treatment should start early, with the most cost-effective and noninvasive options (i.e. periodontal cleanings, osseous surgery, grafts).

 

 

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GINGIVITIS | PERIODONTITIS

There are two stages of the disease: 1. Gingivitis is milder and only affects the gums. The disease is often reversible at this stage when treated early. 2. Periodontitis is the second stage and more serious form of gum disease. Gums may separate from the teeth, forming pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets become infected as well as the gums, damaging tissue and bones that support the teeth. If left untreated, tooth loss can occur.

 

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Deep cleaning (or scaling and root planing). The first step is usually a thorough cleaning of the spaces between the affected teeth and gums. This is called scaling and root planing.  Scaling involves removing tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing removes rough spots and bacteria from the teeth (see "osseous surgery" to learn more about treating advanced periodontal disease).