When you have severe plaque and tartar buildup and receding gum tissue, your smile could be at risk for gingivitis and tooth loss. But with our preventive cleanings, we can offer a chance to manage the issue and safeguard your smile with routine care. In today’s blog, your Encinitas/San Diego, CA, periodontist talks about fighting harmful buildup!

Plaque and Periodontal Disease

Plaque is a bacterial byproduct that forms on the teeth when bacteria consume particles of sugar and starch. These are left behind by the foods and drinks we consume. The layer will harden with time into tartar, and cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. The buildup could irritate and inflame the gum tissues to create inflammation, also known as gingivitis. Without treatment, the layers could cause tissue to recede and pull away from the gums, the buildup then reaching the vulnerable portions of the roots. Not only do you develop periodontal disease, but an increased risk of tooth decay and infection. To protect the smile from periodontal disease, our team can offer procedures to carefully and thoroughly remove all plaque from the teeth and roots.

Scaling and Root Planings

If you have the symptoms of advanced gingivitis or gum disease, such as sore, red gums that bleed, or receding tissues, then we could start with a deep cleaning. Also known as a scaling and root planing, this helps bring the disease into a manageable state so we can use routine procedures every three to four months to keep your gums healthy and strong. The procedure involves using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick to carefully remove all plaque from the teeth and roots, and underneath the gums too. We then smooth the surfaces of the roots. The procedure takes one visit, or could take up to four, depending on how severe your buildup is. We then polish the teeth for a brighter appearance and a smoother finish!

Regular SPT Treatments

With Supportive Periodontal Maintenance (SPT), our team can help protect your smile from periodontal disease or periodontitis with a procedure that takes the place of your routine cleanings. Every three to four months, we will remove deposits and buildup of plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and the surfaces of them, to control inflammation. If you have any questions about how we help people manage the issue or avoid it, or if you would like to schedule a visit, then contact our team.

Talk To Your Encinitas/San Diego, CA Periodontist About Safeguarding Your Smile

We would like to help you enjoy your best possible smile by preventing periodontal disease. If you would like to learn more about fighting periodontal concerns, then call Dr. Kania’s office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.