Deep Teeth Cleaning Raleigh NC
Scaling & Root Planing (SRP) In Raleigh
Gingivitis vs Periodontitis
Gingivitis and Periodontitis are terms that are often confused! Gingivitis, or gum disease, is inflammation of the gums due to bacterial build up. Periodontitis, or periodontal disease, is a much more destructive process than gingivitis as it results in the loss of the gums and bone that support the teeth. People with periodontal disease may experience bad breath, gum recession, deeper pocket depths, bone loss, tooth mobility and tooth loss.
Gingivitis can, but doesn’t always progress to periodontal disease as there is a genetic component to periodontitis also. Gingivitis can help be prevented by good home care and going to your regular 6-month cleanings. Periodontitis needs more care and attention as the stakes are higher!
To stop the progression of periodontitis, a deep cleaning treatment is often needed. This helps to halt the progression of gum recession and bone loss by removing the bacteria and calculus that you can’t reach with your toothbrush. Dr. Michael King may recommend a deep cleaning when there is significant subgingival calculus, deeper pocket depths and significant bone loss or tooth mobility.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, is a process that destroys the supporting structures of your teeth including your gums and bone and can eventually lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss. Nearly 40% of adults over the age of 35 experience have some level of chronic periodontal disease.
There are several approaches we take to treat periodontal disease, and every patient’s treatment plan is unique.
Common Signs Of Periodontal Disease
When your gums are healthy, they are firm, sit snugly against your teeth, and are a light pink color. Some of the most common signs of gum disease include:
- Long teeth
- Visible roots
- Black triangles between teeth
- Loose teeth
- Puffy gums
- Bleeding gums when flossing
- Gum recession
- Pain when chewing
- New spaces between teeth
- Bad breath
Concerned About Gum Disease?
Scaling & Root Planing (SRP)
One of the most impactful treatments for gum disease is scaling and root planing below the gumline. Scaling is when we completely remove the plaque and tartar buildup present above and below your gums. Root planing is when we smooth the roots of your teeth to enable them to reattach to your gums more easily.
Before the procedure, Dr. King will apply a local anesthetic to your gums. Depending on the amount of plaque and tarter hiding under your gums, you may require two appointments to complete the deep cleaning treatment.
ARESTIN: A Local Antibiotic
ARESTIN is an antibiotic uniquely designed for use during a scaling a root planing (SRP) procedure. It is applied locally to deliver the medication directly to the infected area, unlike oral antibiotics. During your initial consultation, Dr. King will determine whether ARESTIN will benefit your case.
Gum Disease Maintenance Program
The likelihood of developing periodontal disease increases after the age of 35 because your body chemistry goes through a change. If you don’t take diligent care of your oral health, the likelihood dramatically increases. In addition to brushing twice and flossing once a day, make sure you schedule a routine dental exam and cleaning at least every six months.
The fact is that nearly three out of four adults deal with gum disease at some point during their lives. And once gum disease starts damaging the roots of your teeth, there is no way to undo the damage. The only thing you can do once periodontitis begins is to stop the disease from becoming worse and causing more damage to your health.
Regular and ongoing oral maintenance can reduce the severity and likelihood of developing periodontal diseases.
Deep Teeth Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to the most common questions from patients about deep teeth cleaning:
Is Deep Teeth Cleaning Worth It?
Gum disease is a widespread cause of pain for many adults, and it only gets worse if you go without treatment. A deep teeth cleaning is one of the most effective ways to halt the damage to your teeth caused by bacteria and infection below the gumline. The benefits of deep teeth cleaning include:
- Preserve the roots of your teeth
- Improve your breath
- Eliminate plaque and tartar
- Halt the advancement of bone loss and tooth mobility
- Halt the advancement of periodontal disease
- Decrease the likelihood of developing gum disease again
Is It Painful To Get A Deep Teeth Cleaning At The Dentist?
You will not feel significant pain during your deep teeth cleaning procedure because Dr. King numbs the area with a local anesthetic. You may feel some pressure during the scaling and root planing process but most patients’ experiences are painless.
Does A Deep Teeth Cleaning Hurt Afterwards?
It usually takes between 2-5 days for the gums to heal completely, following deep teeth cleaning procedure. We recommend sticking to a soft food diet for the first few days until the sensitivity subsides. Avoiding extreme hot and cold food and drinks will also help. Call our office to schedule your consultation, learn about your risk for developing gum disease, and discuss with Dr. King whether you will benefit from a deep teeth cleaning.
