Tel: 972-208-9998
Periodontal Disease
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an inflammatory disease of the bone and gums that support your teeth. It’s caused by plaque buildup that turns into tartar if left uncleaned, causing inflammation that leads to gum infection. Those with poor oral hygiene and other risk factors like smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and family genetics are most susceptible to periodontal disease. In fact, the CDC estimates that over 50% of Americans of the age 30 and over have some form of periodontal disease!
Deep Cleaning
If Periodontal disease is left untreated, bone can quickly deteriorate and lead to tooth loss. The first course of action when we encounter this disease is a deep cleaning. Deep dental cleaning is a non-surgical process that is also referred to as scaling and root planning, or SRP. Our dentist will carefully and diligently remove plaque and tartar away from your teeth both above and below the gum line. Root planning helps to smooth out the rough parts of your teeth to promote gum reattachment.
How Do I Know If I need a deep cleaning?
Do your gums bleed when you floss or brush your teeth? Are your gums sensitive to touch? Are your teeth becoming loose? Do you have bad breath? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, then you may have gum disease. Periodontal disease is especially common for people who do not take care of teeth and for those who have not visited their dentist for many years.
Does A Deep Cleaning Hurt?
No! At BME Dental, we use local anesthesia to ensure that our patients receive profound numbing before doing a deep clean. Thorough cleaning above and below the gums is extremely important in the healing of gum infection, and we want to make sure our patients are comfortable throughout the procedure.
How Often Do I Need A Deep Clean?
It depends on your lifestyle, health, and habits. Someone who takes care of their teeth well and doesn't have any harmful habits like smoking, may only need a deep clean once. However, if you continue not to brush or floss regularly, smoke, and neglect your regular cleanings, then you may need a deep clean every 1-2 years. This is why it’s extremely important to maintain your regular dental visits as well as improving your at-home oral hygiene care.
More Questions about Periodontal Disease?
Check our FAQ for more information, or call us at 972-208-9998 for a consultation with Dr. Bridget.
