Why are healthy gums important?
Healthy gums are important because the gums and other supporting structures help hold our teeth in place so that we can chew and function comfortably. Maintaining healthy gums is an important part of maintaining your oral health.
One of the unfortunate things about periodontal disease, or gum disease, is that patients can't always tell on their own whether their gums are healthy. That being said, there are a few signs that may indicate a problem. Persistent bad breath, loose or shifting teeth, and frequent bleeding with brushing or flossing can all be signs that your gums need to be evaluated.
What causes unhealthy gums?
A common question that comes up is what causes unhealthy gums. Periodontal disease is associated with bacterial plaque that accumulates around the teeth and gumline. The body's inflammatory response to those bacteria can eventually damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
Not everyone has the same risk. Genetics can influence susceptibility, but other factors such as smoking, oral hygiene, certain medical conditions, medications, and individual health factors can also affect periodontal health.
Can unhealthy gums be treated?
Unhealthy gums can be treated, but the approach depends on the condition. Gingivitis, which involves inflammation without loss of the supporting bone, can generally be reversed with appropriate professional care and good oral hygiene.
Periodontitis is different because it involves damage to the supporting tissues and bone. It's a chronic condition that we work to control and manage over the long term rather than something that's simply fixed with one quick treatment.
What is involved in a deep cleaning?
A common question that comes up is what is involved in a deep cleaning. During a periodontal examination, we use a small probe that acts like a ruler to measure the space between the tooth and the gum. These measurements, along with bleeding, inflammation, X-rays, bone levels, and other findings, help us evaluate your periodontal health.
When periodontitis is present, we may recommend a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. During this treatment, we clean below the gumline and along the root surfaces to remove plaque and tartar that you can't adequately remove with brushing and flossing at home.
The recommendation isn't based on a pocket measurement of four millimeters or greater alone. We consider the complete periodontal examination when deciding whether scaling and root planing is appropriate.
Why is a deep cleaning often broken up into two visits?
Oftentimes, when it comes to deep cleanings, we may break treatment up into two visits. We typically use local anesthetic when needed to help keep the patient comfortable, so treating one portion of the mouth at a time can make the appointment easier to manage.
Dividing treatment also gives the hygienist or dental provider enough time to carefully clean the areas that need periodontal treatment. Whether your deep cleaning is completed in one or multiple appointments depends on how much of the mouth needs treatment, the severity of the condition, and your individual needs.
Is a deep dental cleaning painful?
Is a deep dental cleaning painful? I can't speak for all offices, but at our office, patient comfort is one of our primary concerns. We can use local anesthetic to numb the areas being treated and help keep you comfortable while we're cleaning below the gums.
You may experience some temporary tenderness or sensitivity afterward. If you're uncomfortable during treatment or have concerns about what to expect afterward, let us know so we can help.
What can I do at home after a deep cleaning?
A common question that comes up is what you can do at home after a deep cleaning to help maintain your periodontal health. One of the most important things is to use good oral hygiene techniques consistently.
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. An electric toothbrush can be helpful for some patients, but a manual toothbrush can also be effective when used properly.
Cleaning between the teeth is also very important for periodontal health. Depending on your individual needs, that may involve floss, interdental brushes, a water flosser, or another interdental cleaning aid recommended by your dental provider.
Keeping up with your recommended periodontal maintenance visits is also an important part of managing gum disease after active treatment.
When is a gum graft necessary?
Gum grafting is used for a different type of periodontal problem. When gum recession occurs, the gumline moves away from its previous position and may expose part of the tooth root.
A gum graft may be considered when recession is progressing, the tissue around a tooth is thin or inadequate, the root is sensitive, maintaining the area is difficult, or there are other functional or aesthetic concerns.
The recommendation isn't based on a fixed amount of recession, such as three millimeters or greater. We evaluate the cause and extent of the recession, the amount and quality of tissue around the tooth, the condition of the underlying bone, and other individual factors.
The goal of gum grafting may be to increase the amount or thickness of gum tissue, protect the area, and in some cases cover part or all of an exposed root. How much root coverage can be achieved depends on the starting condition.
Want to learn more? Call Periodontics and Implant Dentistry of Tallahassee at (850) 909-9731 or email [email protected]. Our team is happy to answer your questions and help schedule your visit.