Regular cleanings, typically recommended every six months, are essential in preventing gum disease, reducing inflammation, and maintaining a healthy smile. These routine cleanings focus on removing plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line. During a preventative cleaning, our hygienists thoroughly clean your teeth, polish them to remove surface stains, and provide personalized oral hygiene tips to keep your gums healthy.
Key Benefits of Preventative Cleanings:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Thoroughly removes the buildup that regular brushing and flossing might miss.
- Gum Disease Prevention: Helps prevent gingivitis and periodontitis by keeping gums healthy and free of infection.
- Early Detection: Identifies early signs of dental issues, allowing for prompt treatment and avoiding more serious problems.
By staying proactive with your periodontal (gum) care, you can avoid more serious dental problems and ensure long-term oral health. Schedule your preventative cleaning with us today by calling (707) 462-1540.
Non-surgical scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that focuses on treating gum disease and preventing it from progressing. This treatment is essential for patients showing signs of early to moderate gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
Scaling: This process involves removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, especially below the gum line. Special dental tools are used to meticulously clean the teeth, reaching areas that regular brushing and flossing can’t.
Root Planing: After scaling, the next step is smoothing out the roots of your teeth. This helps remove any remaining bacteria and promotes the reattachment of your gums to your teeth, reducing pockets where bacteria can gather.
Signs of gum disease include:
- Gum Bleeding: Bleeding during brushing or flossing is a common early sign.
- Swollen or Red Gums: Gums may appear swollen, red, or inflamed.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away with regular brushing and flossing.
- Gum Recession: Gums may start to pull away from teeth, creating pockets.
- Loose Teeth: Teeth may become loose or shift position due to gum disease.
- Painful Gums: Gums may be tender or painful, especially when touched.
- Changes in Bite: An alteration in how teeth fit together when biting.
- Pus Between Teeth and Gums: Presence of pus or other discharge in the gum pockets.
Non-surgical scaling and root planing are effective ways to manage gum disease and improve overall oral health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, call us today at (707) 462-1540 to take proactive steps towards a healthier smile.