Last time on the blog, we talked about periodontal disease, what it is and how it affects our teeth. Today we are going to talk about what happens to help combat the disease -- deep cleanings and periodontal maintenance.

If you get diagnosed with periodontal disease your dentist and hygienist would prescribe the treatments of a deep cleaning and then followed by periodontal maintenance. This is different from your routine cleaning. 

Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure that involves removing tartar and plaque from the pocket area between the gums and teeth, from the surface of the teeth, and even from the surface of the roots of the teeth. This helps reduce the size of the space between your teeth and gums, helping your gums reattach to the teeth. 

Once all the deep cleaning treatments are completed, you will be on a plan to continue your dental health with periodontal maintenance. The hygienist will remove the tartar build up from in between your teeth and gums down the entire length of each tooth. Each gum pocket is carefully monitored over time to make sure that the gums are not inflamed, have no infection, and that the periodontal disease is gone. Periodontal maintenance is usually recommended to be done every three to four months in order to maintain your gum health and stop the bacterial growth going further down your teeth. 

These procedures are not painful, but your gums may feel sore afterwards. Each person feels different after each appointment. 

Dr. Zoe, Dr. Hanamova, Dr. Leung, and Dr. Brodsky all strive to do their best and help each and every patient to combat and eradicate periodontal disease. It is preventable too, so remember to continue flossing, brushing, and seeing our lovely dentists and hygienists here in Dublin, CA for your routine cleanings!