When performed in time, periodontal deep cleaning has the potential to slow the progression of periodontitis (advanced gum disease), infection, and your risk of losing teeth.
Unlike your routine hygienist appointments during which a scale and polish is performed, periodontal deep cleaning involves eliminating the plaque, tartar and bacteria that’s below the gum line. Getting rid of these substances halts the evolution of gum disease, making it more likely for your natural teeth to stand the test of time.
We will almost certainly suggest a deep clean if you’re suffering from periodontal disease, but we may also suggest it if we find you’re suffering from gingivitis.
You may need a deep clean if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Receding gums
(when gums pull away from teeth to expose more of a tooth). - Consistently bleeding gums after flossing and brushing.
- Loose and separating teeth.
- A bad taste in your mouth.
As gum disease doesn’t always rear its head with obvious symptoms, it’s incredibly important that you come in and see us for regular scale and polish sessions, which make sure your teeth are plaque and tartar free and that these substances don’t make it down to your tooth roots. The sooner we see you, the more likely it is that your treatment will be a success.
The process
Deep cleaning usually takes place over two or more appointments and we will recommend that you come in and see us for regular check-ups, so we can make sure your gum health remains stabilised after treatment.
