The routine cleanings you receive every six months at the dentist’s office are imperative for maintaining the health or your mouth. During these cleanings, the dentist will remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and your gum line, and polish your teeth. However, if you are showing symptoms of periodontal disease (or gum disease), your dentist may want to perform a deep teeth-cleaning procedure, also known as root planing and scaling.
What is a deep teeth cleaning?
During a deep teeth cleaning, your dentist will clean tartar and bacteria from your tooth surfaces and the roots of your teeth. The dentist will then scale the roots of the tooth so that the gums can heal and reattach themselves to the root of the tooth.
Why do the roots of the tooth need to be addressed?
Periodontal disease attacks the gums that surround the roots of our teeth, which can loosen the area the tooth from the gums by causing deep pockets to form. Left untreated, this can cause tooth loss, gum deterioration, and more. Periodontal disease has even been linked to diabetes, heart problems, and even some forms of cancer. During a deep teeth cleaning, the tartar and decay are removed from the root of the teeth, allowing the gums around them to heal and reattach.
How long does it take? Is it painful?
Deep teeth cleaning procedures usually happen over two visits, and the patient is numbed to keep them comfortable.
Is it really necessary?
Deep teeth cleaning is considered the “gold standard” when it comes to fighting periodontal disease. If your dentist has recommended it, it’s probably for very good reason. Considering the implications of untreated gum disease, this procedure can make a huge impact on your oral, and overall, health.
To learn more about deep teeth cleaning, or for more information about the health implications of untreated periodontal disease, visit https://www.govparkdental.com. Dr. Terry L. Brewick serves patients in the Governor’s Park area of Denver, Colorado.
