As we get older, we are more likely to deal with health issues. One of these issues is periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease is common and affects almost half of adults older than the age of 30. It is not a good idea to leave periodontal disease untreated, as it can lead to more severe problems such as tooth loss or bone deterioration. If the bacteria that cause periodontal disease get into your bloodstream, it can cause sepsis. If your dentist in West Roxbury notices that you have periodontal disease, they may recommend a deep dental cleaning to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar below the gumline.
When is a Deep Dental Cleaning Needed?
When you have gum disease, bacteria and plaque cause inflammation in your gums, which causes them to pull away from your teeth, allowing the plaque to settle below the gumline where you cannot reach with your toothbrush.
Some signs of periodontal disease include:
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Sudden bad breath
• Red, sore, or bleeding gums
If you notice any of the above signs, you may require a deep dental cleaning near you.
What Does a Deep Dental Cleaning Involve?
There are two steps to a deep dental cleaning: scaling and root planing.
Scaling removes all the plaque and tartar that has collected underneath your gumline, and root planing smooths out any rough areas around the tooth root to allow your gums to reattach to the tooth.
Typically, this process is done in two visits to Nine One Dental, and our dentist near you will treat half your mouth each time.
How to Avoid the Need for a Deep Dental Cleaning?
The best way to avoid the need for deep dental cleaning in West Roxbury is to prevent periodontal disease in the first place. About 95-98% of gum disease is preventable.
The key to preventing periodontal disease is to maintain a thorough and effective oral hygiene routine. It is important to brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day and floss at least once daily. If that’s not cutting it for you, there are a few additional home care tips you can try:
• If you have arthritis, try using an electric toothbrush so that you can still reach all the areas of the mouth
• If you have larger gaps between your teeth, try using a small toothbrush to clean that area
• If you dislike using traditional floss, try using floss picks or power cleaners such as a Waterpik
You should also make sure to visit Nine One Dental for a professional checkup and routine dental cleaning at least once every six months. Our dentist can detect any early signs of tooth decay or gum disease and address them before it gets to the point where deep cleaning is required.
If you take good care of your teeth, you shouldn’t need additional deep dental cleanings. While scaling and root planning are effective, it is best if you can avoid them altogether. Staying on top of your oral health also keeps your overall health in shape and saves you from having to undergo a potentially costly and uncomfortable treatment.
If you have been experiencing tender or red gums, and are worried that you may have periodontal disease, don’t wait to book a consultation at Nine One Dental. Our team of dedicated dental professionals prioritizes using preventive care to help our patients maintain optimal oral health. With early detection, periodontal disease can be treated and even reversed. Please feel free to visit our clinic and see a dentist near you today!