You probably already know that your teeth should be professionally cleaned every six months. This allows for any bacteria and tartar built-up on your teeth and along your gums to be removed. If there is a significant buildup of bacteria along or under your gums, it could be gum disease. Early gum disease can be reversed, but later stages cannot be. A deep cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing, is a cleaning of your teeth at their roots, which are covered by your gums. This kind of cleaning can rid prevent gum disease from advancing to stages where it can cause tooth loss, further infection, and other complications.
What Is It?
Scaling is when your dentist removes all the plaque and tartar above and below the gums. A root planing is the process of smoothing out the roots of your teeth to help your gums reattach to them. Scaling and root planing may take more than one visit to complete and may require a local anesthesia.
Why Is It Necessary?
Periodontal (gum) disease is progressive, which means it will continue to worsen until it is addressed. The mild, first stage, gingivitis is inflammation of the gums with symptoms of redness and swelling caused by the build up of bacteria. When gingivitis is ignored and the poor oral hygiene continues, it can progress into the more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. At this stage, the disease can cause the gums to start pulling away from the teeth which ultimately can lead to potential loss of the teeth. Severe gum disease can increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more. A deep cleaning is a way to manage gum disease for the sake of both your oral and overall health.
A Deep Cleaning Can Help Reverse or Manage Gum Disease
A deep cleaning, a scaling and root planing, can help manage the effects of gum disease. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Spring Hill, Osawatomie, Edgerton, Shawnee, Johnson County, De Soto, Paola, Lawrence, and all surrounding communities.