Did you know that bacteria can invade your gum line? When this happens, a standard teeth cleaning may not be enough.
A dental deep cleaning is a treatment that removes tartar buildup below the gum line and down to the roots. Sometimes referred to as gum therapy, this professional teeth cleaning method is meant to treat gum disease before it worsens.
Deep cleaning teeth in Fort McMurray AB
What is the purpose of deep cleaning teeth?
When tarter buildup leads to infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth, also known as periodontal disease, this special cleaning is needed to control the infection and promote healing.
If gum disease is not attended to, loss of connective tissue can occur, leading to bone loss and tooth loss. As Fort McMurray orthodontists and dental professionals, our goal is to prevent the progression of oral disease.
How is dental deep cleaning done?
Once it’s determined that infection exists, your Fort McMurray dentist or orthodontist will recommend professional deep teeth cleaning, which may require several visits to complete. Dental deep cleaning is also referred to as scaling and root planing.
In scaling, your dentist may use the following:
• A hand-held dental scaler to manually scrape plaque above and below your gum line, or;
• An ultrasonic tool with a vibrating metal tip and water spray to wash the tartar away.
Root planing involves a rubbing motion to smooth rough spots on the roots of your teeth. These rough spots trap bacteria, which increases the risk of gum disease.
How do I know I need a deep dental cleaning?
You may need deep dental cleaning if you notice the following signs of infection:
• Your gums look red and swollen.
• Your gums are tender and bleed when you brush or floss.
• Your teeth appear longer - a sign that your gums are pulling away.
Your dentist can identify problems by measuring any pockets in your gums and check for bone loss. If the pockets can’t be treated with regular cleaning, then a deep teeth cleaning is needed to clear the infection and heal the gums.
How to prevent gum disease
When it comes to your oral health, prevention is key. Make a habit of brushing and flossing twice daily and regularly seeing your dentist for routine exams and cleanings. Standard professional teeth cleaning is a preventive measure to clear away the plaque and tartar responsible for gum disease. Consistent daily care is vital to healthy teeth and gums.
