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Periodontist Vancouver WA: Periodontal Cleaning

Protecting Your Gums & Teeth With Gum Disease Treatment

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Periodontist Vancouver WA | Periodontal Maintenance Therapy

Periodontal cleaning, also known as deep teeth cleaning or periodontal maintenance therapy, is an ongoing treatment for patients diagnosed with periodontal disease. A non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment carefully cleaned by an experienced hygienist.

Periodontal maintenance is required to remove plaque and calculus above and below your gum line. Additionally, clean deep periodontal pockets and smooth the tooth to remove plaque and harmful toxins further.

periodontal maintenance therapy

prevents disease from worsening

what to expect during a periodontal treatment?

Periodontal disease, is a common gum disease that affects the gums as well as its supporting structures of the teeth. If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend a periodontal treatment to halt its progression and restore your oral health. Understanding what to expect during this treatment can help alleviate any concerns and prepare you for the process.

First and foremost, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health, including assessing the severity of your gum disease. They may take X-rays or perform other diagnostic tests to evaluate the extent of the damage and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

During the periodontal treatment, the dentist or periodontist will focus on cleaning the deep pockets that have formed between your gums and teeth. This is usually done through a procedure called scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline, while root planing smooths out the rough spots on the tooth roots to discourage bacterial growth and promote gum reattachment.

Local anesthesia or numbing gel may be used to ensure your comfort during the procedure. In some cases, sedation dentistry techniques can be employed for patients with dental anxiety or extensive treatment. Your dependable dentist will discuss these options with you beforehand.
Depending on the severity the periodontal disease, the treatment may be completed in a single visit or require multiple sessions. After the initial treatment, your dentist will schedule follow-up checkup to assess your progress and ensure that your gums are healing properly.

Throughout the treatment process, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices at home. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to brush and floss effectively, as well as recommend any additional oral care products that may aid in your recovery.

It is normal to experience some discomfort or sensitivity following the periodontal treatment. Your dentist in Vancouver may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort. It is crucial to follow their instructions and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure the success of the treatment.

Remember, periodontal treatment aims to bring back the health of your gums and avoid further damage to your teeth and supporting structures. By understanding what to expect during this process and following your dentist’s recommendations, you should follow the instructions and advice religiously for you to achieve a healthier and sparkling smile.

what is gum disease?

Gum disease or periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is characterized by inflammation and infection of the gum tissues, which can progress and lead to serious complications if left untreated.

The primary cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. When plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and along the gumline, it can irritate and inflame the gums. If plaque is not regularly removed through proper brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar or calculus, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

The initial stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed easily during brushing or flossing. At this stage, the disease is still reversible with prompt treatment and improved oral hygiene practices. Regular dental cleanings and professional deep cleanings called scaling and root planing may be recommended to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis involves the destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gum tissues, periodontal ligaments, and bone. As the disease progresses, pockets may form between the gums and teeth, allowing bacteria to accumulate and further damage the tissues.

Advanced periodontitis can lead to tooth loss, as the weakened supporting structures can no longer hold the teeth in place. Additionally, research has linked gum disease to various systemic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Therefore, maintaining good oral health is not only important for preserving a healthy smile but also for overall well-being.

Preventing gum disease involves adopting a comprehensive oral hygiene routine that includes regular brushing and flossing, along with routine visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings. It’s also important to eat a balanced diet, limit sugary snacks and beverages, and avoid tobacco use.

signs and symptoms of gum disease

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of gum disease is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Some common indications include red, swollen, or tender gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. Persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose or shifting teeth, and the formation of pockets between the gums and teeth are also signs of gum disease.

It’s also important to pay attention to any changes in the alignment of the bite, any obvious alterations, and pus around the gums and teeth. Seeking a dental specialist for a comprehensive assessment and suitable treatment is crucial if you encounter any of these symptoms.

how to reverse gum disease

Reversing gum disease is possible with early detection and proper treatment. Here are some steps you can take to help reverse gum disease:

  1. Improve oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the gumline and gently brush in a circular motion. Don’t forget to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
  2. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash: Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup. Look for a mouthwash that is specifically designed for gum health and follow the instructions on the label.
  3. Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet can support gum health. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. Limit sugary and processed foods that can contribute to plaque formation.
  4. Quit smoking: Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for your gums to heal. Quitting smoking can significantly improve gum health and decrease the progression of gum disease.
  5. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for monitoring your gum health. Your Vancouver dentist can identify early signs of gum disease and provide appropriate treatment to reverse its effects.

In more advanced cases of gum disease, your dentist may recommend additional treatments such as scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgical intervention. Remember, early intervention is key to effectively reversing gum disease, so be proactive in taking care of your oral health.

gum cleaning

Our dental practice is adept in providing gum cleaning services to help maintain optimal oral health. Gum cleaning is a preventative procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums. It is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene, as it can help reduce the risk of developing gum disease or other dental conditions.

During a gum cleaning appointment, our dental hygienists will use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and below the gumline. The process may include scaling, which involves scraping off stubborn deposits from the tooth surfaces, and root planing, which smooths out any rough spots on the tooth roots to discourage bacterial growth.

Gum cleaning typically does not require anesthesia; however, numbing gel may be used to ensure your comfort. Depending on the severity of plaque and tartar buildup, one or multiple appointments may be necessary to complete the procedure. After the treatment is finished, our dental hygienists will provide detailed instructions on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home and schedule follow-up visits for monitoring your progress.

gum grafting

If you are suffering from gum recession due to trauma, periodontal disease or other causes, your dentist may recommend a gum grafting procedure. This treatment involves replacing the missing gum tissue with a donor tissue or material to restore the appearance and health of the gums.

Before the actual grafting procedure begins, your dentist will put an anesthesia for your comfort. The donor tissue is then placed in the area where the gums have receded and secured in place with sutures. Depending on the type of graft used and case complexity, one or more teeth may be treated during each session.

what is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. Often, gingivitis is the result of inadequate oral hygiene. When plaque is allowed to remain on teeth, bacteria within it begins to irritate your gums. As a result, your gums will become red, swollen, and can bleed easily. Additionally, sensitivity and tenderness of the gum tissue, and slight bleeding can occur. You may notice your toothbrush or floss having a slight pinkish tone to them after use.

Since gingivitis rarely causes pain, most patients do not know when they have it. Eventually, the bacteria will work its way above your gum line. At this point, contacting your Vancouver, WA periodontist is more critical than ever. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care. However, if left untreated Gingivitis will progress, and further complications preventing gum disease can arise.

overview of gingivitis

how gingivitis can progress to gum disease

what is gum disease and are there different types of gum line?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum tissue and gum structure that hold your teeth in place. The gum tissue and bone structure are attacked by the bacteria, which weakens your tooth structure. Consequently, you are at risk for tooth loss. Before replacing a tooth that is lost, gum disease must be treated.

Without regular dental cleanings, harmful bacteria and hard deposits called calculus build up on your teeth above and below your gums. Additionally, the bacteria releases harmful toxins that can lead to gingivitis, causing inflamed and bleeding gums.

there are two types of gum disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum tissue and gum structure that hold your teeth in place. The gum tissue and bone structure are attacked by the bacteria, which weakens your tooth structure. Consequently, you are at risk for tooth loss. Before replacing a tooth that is lost, gum disease must be treated.

Without regular dental cleanings, harmful bacteria and hard deposits called calculus build up on your teeth above and below your gums. Additionally, the bacteria releases harmful toxins that can lead to gingivitis, causing inflamed and bleeding gums.

There are two types of gum disease:

  • Gingivitis
  • Periodontitis

what are the symptoms of gum disease?

Initially, symptoms of gum disease may not appear. Often, the symptoms of gum disease are silent, especially in the early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis. Typically, symptoms of gum disease will begin with inflammation of the gums.

Other symptoms that you may experience include:

  • Red or purple colored gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Gums that are bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Mouth sores
  • A change in your bite

periodontitis is severe gum disease

Periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease. Previously, gingivitis existed in your mouth and was left untreated. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque grow below your gum line. With time, the harmful bacteria there will deteriorate your bone that holds your teeth.

Fortunately, periodontitis is a treatable condition. Similar to treatment for other forms of periodontal disease, your deep teeth cleanings will occur every three to four months. Also, your dentist will complete a comprehensive evaluation to ensure your overall health is not affected.

overview of periodontitis

health consequences of untreated gum infection

scaling and root planing

reverse gum disease

don't let periodontal disease ruin your teeth and gums!

You don’t have to struggle with the discomfort of periodontal disease alone. Cascade Dental offers fast and effective treatment options for periodontal disease so you can prevent further damage to your oral health.

With our experienced dental professionals, state-of-the-art technology, and advanced techniques, we’ll help you get back to enjoying life without worrying about your periodontal health.

Take charge of your oral health today – make an appointment with Cascade Dental today!