How Often Should You Get Your Periodontal Cleaning?

A dental cleaning is when a dentist or dental hygienist cleans your teeth above the gumline. Those with periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, require periodontal cleaning, which is cleaning below the gumline. Periodontal disease is a buildup of plaque and tartar under the gums, which creates pockets between the teeth and gums. Bacteria builds up within these pockets, so they must be cleaned to prevent decay.

Periodontal disease affects nearly half of all adults in the U.S. It is the leading cause of tooth loss, and it increases the risk of other health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

If you have periodontal disease, you should have a periodontal cleaning every three or four months. A dental cleaning is considered preventative care to stop the formation of cavities, while a periodontal cleaning is a treatment for controlling the disease. The bacteria are removed by the cleaning, but they will come back, and if they aren’t removed every three to four months, the teeth will begin to decay.

What Is Involved in a Periodontal Cleaning?

During a periodontal cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth, gums, and roots. This is done in two parts:

• Scaling – Your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces, gums, and gum pockets using a scaler. Scaling helps eliminate deep gum pockets and helps the gums reattach to the teeth.

• Root Planing – Using special instruments, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from the tooth roots.

The dentist may numb you to make sure you are comfortable throughout the procedure, and it may take two appointments.

To learn more about periodontal disease and periodontal cleanings, contact Cascade Dental Care in West Jordan, Utah to schedule an appointment.