The American Dental Association recommends a routine dental cleaning for patients of all ages every six months. We agree that routine maintenance can help safeguard your smile against inflammation or even periodontal disease. However, in some cases you may benefit from a deep cleaning with your periodontist. When do you need a deep cleaning?
Routine Dental Cleanings
A routine cleaning is typically performed every six months at your dentist’s or periodontist’s office. Using either a manual tool or an ultrasonic scaler, the plaque buildup and tartar are removed from your teeth. Doing so helps prevent the onset of gingivitis and tooth decay, as well as halitosis and serious discoloration. Even if you brush and floss as recommended, you still need these preventive visits.
Periodontal Deep Cleanings
A deep cleaning occurs when plaque buildup has become severe enough to inflame the gums. The procedure can be used to reverse gingivitis or to help manage gum disease. When you come to the office, we will use ultrasonic scaling and root planing to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and from below the gum line. The procedure may be completed in one visit or require multiple visits, depending on the severity of the buildup.
Recognizing Possible Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease
When should you see your periodontist for a deep cleaning? We recommend contacting a professional when you notice changes in your gum tissue, such as the tissue appearing more red than usual or feeling sore. You may also notice your gums bleed easily, such as when you brush and floss. If you have any questions about our preventive procedures or how to combat gum disease, then please contact our team today.
ABOUT YOUR ENCINITAS/SAN DIEGO, CA, LASER PERIODONTIST:
As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Ann M. Kania is specially qualified to diagnose and treat issues concerning periodontal tissue and the supportive structures of a patient’s smile, as well as place dental implants to restore teeth lost to dental disease or trauma. Dr. Kania also offers the Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST) for minimally-invasive, scalpel-free gum grafting. To seek Dr. Kania’s expertise, contact her office today at (760) 642-0711.