If you have been experiencing red, swollen,
and bleeding gums every time you brush or floss, it is time to schedule an
appointment with your dentist who can determine if you are dealing with some
type of gum disease.
Gingivitis is the least serious and can
usually be taken care of with a professional cleaning. Gingivitis can be
reversed as long as you follow your dentist’s instructions, brush twice, and
floss once each day, eat tooth and gum healthy foods and schedule regular
checkups with your dentist.
However, if your gum disease has advanced to
the more serious periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend Scaling and
root planing. If it is past the point of no return, and yes, some types of
periodontitis are irreversible, then he or she may refer you to a gum
specialist or a periodontist who can determine what steps need to be taken to
get your gums healthy again
Scaling and root planing is the most conservative
and most common type of periodontal disease treatment.
Scaling is used to remove the tartar or
calculus and plaque that are attached to the surfaces of your tooth. Scaling
targets the hard to reach areas below your gum line and along the roots of your
teeth.
Plaque is loaded with bacteria and will stick
to your teeth. Over time, that plaque will harden turning into tartar. Plaque
is likely to stick to the rough surfaces on your teeth. Because of this, your
dentist will use root planing to remove any of the calculus that is still on
your teeth while smoothing out the irregular spots on the surfaces of your
teeth.
Bacteria will eventually cause periodontitis
as tartar and plaque give teeth an irregular surface that makes it easy for
bacteria to hide and attach itself. Scaling and root planing will remove the
tartar and plaque giving your gums a chance to heal. As long as you practice
good oral health habits, you may not need another scaling and root planing. If
you are in the early stages of gum disease, this maybe all that you need for
treatment, however, more advanced gum disease may require more invasive
procedures such as surgery.
If you would like more information regarding
a professional deep teeth cleaning, or scaling and root planing, schedule an appointment
with your dentist today who can determine what comes next if you are suffering
from gingivitis or gum disease. Call and schedule an appointment today.
