Periodontal cleaning is a specialized dental procedure for gum health concerns beyond routine cleaning. It removes harmful bacteria and deposits from areas standard oral hygiene practices cannot reach. By targeting gum irritation, it restores gum tissue health and tooth support structures. This procedure is a focused intervention for developing or progressing gum problems.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, encompasses inflammatory conditions affecting tissues around teeth. Gingivitis, its earliest stage, involves red, swollen, easily bleeding gums, often from plaque and tartar buildup. Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more serious form where plaque and tartar spread below the gum line. This leads to pockets between teeth and gums, where bacteria thrive and damage supporting bone and tissues. Symptoms like persistent bad breath, receding gums, or loose teeth may indicate this condition.
Bacteria in plaque and tartar produce toxins, triggering a chronic inflammatory response in gums. This inflammation can destroy gum tissue and bone anchoring teeth. As the disease advances, pockets deepen, allowing more bacteria to accumulate and degrade supporting structures. Without intervention, this tissue and bone loss can result in tooth mobility and tooth loss.
The Periodontal Cleaning Procedure
Periodontal cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, thoroughly cleans tooth surfaces and roots. It begins with scaling, removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from above and below the gum line. Dental professionals use specialized instruments, including manual and ultrasonic scalers, to clean these areas. Ultrasonic scalers use high-frequency vibrations and water spray to dislodge deposits and flush debris.
After scaling, root planing smooths tooth root surfaces. Rough root surfaces can harbor bacteria and plaque, hindering gum reattachment. Smoothing these surfaces prevents future bacterial accumulation and promotes gum tissue healing and reattachment to teeth. The process typically takes one to two hours, often split into multiple appointments, such as cleaning one side at a time. Local anesthesia is commonly administered for comfort, especially when addressing deeper pockets.
Periodontal Cleaning vs. Regular Dental Cleaning
Periodontal cleaning differs significantly from a regular dental cleaning in purpose and scope. A routine dental cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a preventive measure for individuals with healthy gums. It removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces above the gum line to maintain oral health and prevent issues. These cleanings are typically recommended every six months.
In contrast, periodontal cleaning is a therapeutic treatment for those diagnosed with gum disease. It targets existing infections by cleaning below the gum line, within deepened periodontal pockets. This deeper cleaning addresses bacteria and hardened plaque that regular cleanings cannot reach. Techniques and instruments used are more intensive, reflecting its role in treating active disease rather than preventing it.
Maintaining Oral Health After Cleaning
After periodontal cleaning, consistent home care supports healing and prevents gum disease recurrence. Proper brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and daily flossing are essential to remove plaque and food particles. Dental professionals may suggest antimicrobial mouthwashes or specific antibiotics to reduce bacterial presence and aid recovery.
Regular follow-up appointments, termed periodontal maintenance, are important for long-term gum health. These visits, typically every three to four months, allow the dental team to monitor gum health, remove new plaque or tartar buildup, and ensure the disease remains under control. Adhering to these recommendations stabilizes gum conditions and reduces further periodontal disease progression.