21
Jan
How a Professional Deep Cleaning Treats Gum Disease
Sometimes, gum disease progresses to a point where it needs more than standard cleanings and good oral hygiene. Deep teeth cleaning in Brentwood, California, treats moderate to severe gum disease to restore optimal periodontal health. If you suspect gum disease, schedule an appointment with Brentwood Dental Care. Dr. Don Mungcal will perform non-surgical deep teeth cleaning to stop gum disease effectively.
What can I expect from deep teeth cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning involves a two-step procedure. The first step, scaling, removes plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from the deep periodontal pockets. During this process, the dentist uses ultrasonic and hand scalers to reach the depths of these pockets. The second step, root planing, smooths the root surfaces of the teeth, allowing the gums to reattach more easily.
Deep periodontal cleaning typically requires 2 to 3 visits, depending on the severity of the infection. The initial appointment is a consultation to determine whether deep teeth cleaning is the best treatment. Mild gum disease (gingivitis) only needs standard cleanings and optimal at-home oral hygiene. However, deep teeth cleaning is ideal when the infection is severe but doesn’t warrant surgery.
Before treatment, the doctor administers local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable dental experience. Sedation dentistry is also available to enhance your comfort if you feel anxious about the procedure. The dentist treats your mouth in stages to optimize your comfort. We may treat each half (or quadrant) of the mouth to ensure you use the rest of the mouth between treatments.
How long does it take to recover after periodontal cleaning?
If you’ve recently undergone scaling and root planing, you’re probably wondering how long it will take to recover. Although severe cases of gum disease take longer to heal, the average recovery period is 5-7 days. While your mouth is healing, you may experience mild bleeding, swelling, and bruising. Teeth also become sensitive, as roots were recently exposed. These discomforts are normal because scaling and root planing (SRP) is extensive. The following tips can help minimize pain.
- Take the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed.
- Apply ice packs on your gums to minimize swelling.
- Avoid hot, spicy, sweet, or freezing foods to avoid irritation.
- Brush and floss your teeth diligently to prevent reinfections.
- Use a prescribed antibacterial mouthwash.
- Avoid smoking.
- Adhere to follow-up appointments as they help monitor treatment progress.
Most patients require deep teeth cleaning to manage gum disease. During your follow-up appointment, the dentist will assess the need for advanced treatments. If you do not respond to scaling and root planing (SRP) treatment, the dentist may recommend surgery.
Before and After Actual Patient Results
Is gum disease preventable?
Gum disease is the common cause of tooth loss in adults. While treatments are available, you’d rather prevent the infection in the first place. Prevention reduces unnecessary discomfort and the need for costly and time-consuming treatments.
Observe the tips below to preserve your healthy gums.
- Brush and floss your teeth diligently.
- Use a tongue scraper to remove harmful bacteria at the base of the tongue.
- Use a medicated mouthwash.
- Adhere to routine dental cleanings and check-ups.
- Limit the intake of sugary foods.
- Manage stress and other immune-suppressing conditions.
Do you miss your healthy gums?
Brentwood Dental Care understands the importance of optimal periodontal health. If you suspect gum disease, call (310) 444-9900 to schedule an appointment with our team. After an evaluation, we’ll determine the best periodontal disease treatment.