Manage Your Gum Health With A Periodontal Cleaning

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des moines periodontal cleaning

When you develop the warning signs of gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease, you need care to avoid the risk of uncomfortable symptoms and tooth loss. One way to start managing your oral health is with a scaling and root planing. In today’s blog, your Des Moines, IA, dentist talks about managing gum health with a periodontal cleaning.

The Causes of Gum Disease

Before the disease develops, people first suffer from gum inflammation. When the gingival tissues become inflamed, known as gingivitis, this could eventually lead to pockets forming as the tissues pull away from the gum line. When bacteria enter these pockets, this leads to periodontal disease. Factors behind inflammation include tobacco use, certain medications, inflammatory illness, a family history of periodontal issues, improper brushing and flossing habits, and infrequent cleaning visits. Warning signs often include sore gums that look redder than usual, or may bleed easily. When these symptoms occur, let us know right away!

Scaling and Root Planing

The deep cleaning procedure could help reverse gingivitis and help manage periodontal disease, preventing the later stages from developing that are linked to tooth loss. The procedure involves using an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and roots. This reduces inflammation and allows healthy tissues to adhere to the teeth. The procedure could take one visit, or up to four, depending on how severe the buildup is. The last step of the process is to thoroughly polish the entire smile.

Routine Cleaning Visits

After your scaling and root planing, we will have treatments to help manage the disease to prevent the dangerous later stages. You may need routine dental cleanings every three to four months to control plaque and tartar buildup. We also suggest avoiding tobacco use, and eating a healthier diet to help control buildup. At home, be sure you brush for two minutes each session in the morning and at night. You should also floss every evening before going to bed too. These actions help protect your smile from not only gum issues, but also tooth decay and dental infection.

If you have any questions about how to protect smiles and keep disease at bay, then contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy optimal oral health!

TALK TO YOUR DES MOINES, IA DENTIST ABOUT GENERAL DENTISTRY

We want to help you avoid complications related to untreated periodontal disease. To find out more about the process of managing your oral health at home and in our office, then please contact your Des Moines, IA, dentist, Dr. Burds, by calling 515-244-9565. Summer is the perfect time to arrange for a visit for you and your family, so we help you maintain your best possible smile!