Preventive Dentistry
Westwood, NJ
 When it comes to oral health, preventive dentistry plays a pivotal role. At a periodontist's practice, the heart of preventative dentistry lies with a procedure called a “deep cleaning.”
We here at Westwood Periodontics may recommend a deep cleaning to halt the progress of gum disease and prevent worse complications such as bone or tooth loss. It’s a relatively routine procedure, and one that could benefit you if you’re looking to improve your oral heath.
Understanding Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a thorough cleaning process that goes beyond the regular cleaning performed during a typical dental checkup. It targets the removal of plaque and tartar buildup both above and below the gum line, a crucial step in preventing gum disease and maintaining overall oral health.
Why are Deep Cleanings Necessary?
This procedure is essential for:
Preventing Gum Disease: Removing plaque and tartar helps prevent the onset and progression of periodontal disease.
Treating Early Stages of Gum Disease: Deep cleaning is often the first line of defense against gingivitis and periodontitis.
Maintaining Overall Dental Health: Regular deep cleanings contribute to the longevity and health of teeth and gums.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Initial Examination: Dr. Gupta conducts a comprehensive oral examination, which may include the use of diagnostic tools, to assess the health of your teeth and gums.
Periodontal Charting: This involves measuring the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth, a critical step in determining the need for deep cleaning, and whether or not periodontal disease is present.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling: This involves meticulously removing plaque and tartar deposits from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line.
Root Planing: Following scaling, the roots of the teeth are smoothed to encourage the gums to reattach, reducing pocket depths and healing the gum tissue.
After Your Deep Cleaning
Guidance on Oral Hygiene: Patients may receive personalized advice on maintaining oral hygiene to prevent further plaque and tartar buildup.
Follow-Up Appointments: Patients prone to gum disease and plaque buildip may want to concider more regular visits with a periodontist to monitor the health of the gums and ensure the continued success of the treatment.
What Are the Benefits of a Deep Cleaning?
Reduces Risk of Gum Disease: Deep cleaning significantly lowers the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Improves Gum Health: It helps in reducing gum inflammation and bleeding.
Prevents Tooth Loss: By tackling the root cause of gum disease, deep cleaning plays a vital role in preventing tooth loss.
Enhances Overall Health: Good oral health is linked to overall health; deep cleaning helps maintain this balance.
Determining the Need for Deep Cleaning
Dr. Gupta assesses each patient’s need for deep cleaning based on:
Depth of Gum Pockets: Pockets deeper than 3-4 millimeters typically require deep cleaning.
Signs of Gum Disease: Symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession are indicators.
Oral Health History: Previous history of dental issues can necessitate more frequent deep cleanings.
Schedule Your Deep Cleaning
As a practice, we want to ensure our patients leave our office with a healthy, beautiful smile. For many people, this involves undergoing a deep cleaning.
Trust your dental care to a periodontist who brings unparalleled expertise and a commitment to excellence. Call (551) 751-2024 to schedule your consultation today! |
