In most cases, if your gums are healthy, we will suggest that you visit us once every six months for a routine dental cleaning and a checkup. However, if you have visited us recently and we have suggested a deep cleaning to address your gum disease, something not-so-great is going on with your gum tissue. The good news is that this type of cleaning will address the cause of your gum inflammation and potential infection, so we may begin guiding you back toward a healthy, comfortable smile. Ready to learn a bit more about this type of cleaning and what you can expect? Read further:
Why You Need One
You need a deep cleaning because plaque has moved beneath your gumline, hardened into tartar, and inflamed your gums. You gums may also be infected. Unfortunately, once gum disease begins, it will not clear on its own. The illness starts as gingivitis, a reversible stage – once it progresses into full periodontal disease, however, we may treat and control the problem but can no longer clear or cure it. A deep cleaning is usually the first step in resolving periodontal illness.
About Scaling
Scaling is the first step in your deep cleaning. We will thoroughly remove the tartar from beneath your gumline that is resulting in your gum disease. We may suggest that you visit us over the course of multiple visits – in many cases we will work on only one-quarter of your mouth at a time. By removing the plaque and tartar, your gums will have a chance to heal.
About Root Planing
Tartar that rests on your teeth may result in some erosion. You see, plaque and tartar are full of bacteria that release acids in your mouth. The acids slowly eat away at tooth tissue, while they irritate your gums. Teeth with erosion end up with grooves that provide areas for bacteria to cling and hide. We will smooth your tooth surfaces with planing to prevent plaque buildup.
ABOUT YOUR LIVONIA, MI COSMETIC DENTIST:
James Stewart, DDS, and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.