Deep Dental Cleaning in Fort Worth, TX
Are you experiencing red, swollen, or bleeding gums? Do your teeth feel loose or sensitive? These could be signs of gum disease, a common condition that affects many adults. Fortunately, with early detection and treatment, gum disease can be stopped and even reversed. At Custom Periodontics & Implantology in Fort Worth, TX, we offer deep dental cleaning as a treatment option for early gum disease.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. It begins with the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. If left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning. Tartar buildup irritates the gums, causing inflammation and infection.
If periodontal disease is left untreated and allowed to progress, it can lead to tooth decay, tooth loss, bone deterioration, and gum loss.
There are three stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of gum disease. Symptoms include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with professional cleanings and good oral hygiene habits.
- Periodontitis: This is the second stage of gum disease, and it occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. In periodontitis, the gum tissue begins to pull away from the teeth, creating periodontal pockets that become infected. The infection can spread to the bone and supporting structures of the teeth.
- Advanced Periodontitis: This is the most severe stage of gum disease. In advanced periodontitis, the bone and supporting structures of the teeth are irreversibly damaged. Teeth may become loose or fall out, and the gums may recede.
Deep Dental Cleaning: Scaling and Root Planing
If caught early, gum disease can be treated with deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. Deep teeth cleanings are different than the regular teeth cleanings that you get at your normal trips to the dentist. Regular cleaning is done to remove plaque that builds up over time that doesn’t get removed with brushing and flossing. Scaling and root planing is done with special dental instruments and is more in-depth than the cleaning you get at your regular dental checkups.
This non-surgical procedure is designed to remove the buildup of stuck-on plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Scaling is the process of removing tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing is the process of smoothing out the root surfaces to remove bacterial toxins and promote healing. This deep cleaning helps to eliminate the infection and the inflammatory response that is caused by harmful bacteria.
What to Expect at Your Deep Teeth Cleaning Appointment
We begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, including a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and supporting structures. If gum disease is detected, we will recommend the appropriate treatment options, including deep dental cleaning.
During the deep cleaning procedure, we use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. We may also use antibiotics or antimicrobial agents to help control the infection. In some cases, we may recommend additional treatments, such as gum surgery, to restore the health of your gums.
Ways to Prevent Periodontal Disease
Preventing periodontal disease requires a commitment to good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. Here are some effective ways to prevent periodontal disease:
- Brush your teeth twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. Be sure to brush along the gum line and on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush cannot reach.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugary and starchy foods, which can increase the production of plaque.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking is a significant risk factor for periodontal disease. Smoking weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. It also reduces blood flow to your gums, making it harder for them to heal.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Regular trips to the dentist are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and provide treatment before it becomes more severe.
Restore Your Healthy Smile at Custom Periodontics & Implantology in Fort Worth, TX
If you are experiencing signs of gum disease, don’t wait to seek treatment. Early detection and intervention can help to prevent the progression of gum disease and protect your oral health. At Custom Periodontics & Implantology, we offer deep dental cleaning in Fort Worth, TX, to help our patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and learn more about our periodontal services.
Schedule your Appointment
If you suffer from gum disease, or if you simply want to do more to maintain your oral health, contact Custom Periodontics and Implantology at Fort Worth, TX, today to schedule an appointment!
