Periodontal Deep Cleanings

Periodontal disease, a more advanced stage of gum disease, is a common oral health issue that can lead to serious problems if left untreated. At Southeastern Dental Care in Lakeville, Dr. Bui and our team specialize in periodontal deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, to help combat the progression of gum disease and restore the health of your gums. We prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout the entire process to ensure a positive experience and optimal results.

We are proud to serve patients in Lakeville and surrounding areas like Raynham, Middleboro, Taunton, Fairhaven, New Bedford, and Freetown with expert deep cleanings. Call (508) 947-5717 today to schedule your appointment with our compassionate care team!

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease starts with the accumulation of plaque and tartar on your teeth, which causes inflammation of the gums. If not addressed in its early stages (gingivitis), the condition can progress to more severe stages, resulting in gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Periodontal deep cleanings are designed to halt the progression of gum disease and prevent these serious complications.

What is a Periodontal Deep Cleaning?

A periodontal deep cleaning is a specialized procedure that goes beyond a routine dental cleaning. It involves two critical steps: scaling and root planing.

Scaling: This process involves removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline, reaching deep into the pockets around the teeth where bacteria hide.
Root Planing: After scaling, we smooth the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach, reducing the depth of the periodontal pockets and promoting healing.

Benefits of Periodontal Deep Cleanings

For patients suffering from moderate to severe gum disease, periodontal deep cleanings offer several important health benefits:

Stops the Progression of Gum Disease: Removing the plaque and tartar that lead to gum disease helps prevent further damage to the gums and supporting bone.
Prevents Tooth Loss: By treating gum disease early, deep cleanings can prevent the need for tooth extractions and maintain the integrity of your smile.
Improves Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath is often a sign of gum disease. Deep cleanings can help resolve this issue by eliminating the underlying infection.
Boosts Overall Health: Gum disease has been linked to systemic health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Treating gum disease can improve your overall health and well-being.

What to Expect During Your Periodontal Deep Cleaning

At Southeastern Dental Care, we are committed to ensuring your comfort throughout the entire procedure. Here’s what you can expect during your periodontal deep cleaning:

Thorough Examination: We will first examine your gums to assess the severity of the gum disease and identify the areas that require treatment.
Numbing for Comfort: Local anesthesia may be used to numb the affected areas, ensuring a pain-free experience during the cleaning.
Scaling and Root Planing: Using specialized tools, we will carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooth out the tooth roots.
Post-Treatment Care: After your deep cleaning, we will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your gums and teeth at home, and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and progress.

Signs You May Need a Periodontal Deep Cleaning

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consider a periodontal deep cleaning:

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing.
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
Gum recession (pulling away from the teeth).
Loose teeth or noticeable gaps forming between your teeth and gums.

It’s important to address these symptoms early to prevent further damage and restore your oral health.

FAQs About Periodontal Deep Cleanings

Q: How do I know if I need a deep cleaning?

You may need a deep cleaning if you have gum pockets deeper than 4mm, bleeding or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession. Dr. Bui will measure pocket depths and assess your gum health during examination.

Q: Will the deep cleaning procedure be painful?

We use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you should feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some patients experience mild soreness for a few days afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Q: How long does a periodontal deep cleaning take?

A full-mouth deep cleaning typically requires 2 appointments, with each session lasting 45-90 minutes. We usually treat one quadrant at a time for thorough cleaning and comfort.

Q: What should I expect after a deep cleaning?

It’s normal to experience gum tenderness, slight bleeding when brushing, and tooth sensitivity for a few days. We’ll provide aftercare instructions, and most patients see significant improvement within a few weeks.

Q: How often will I need deep cleanings?

Most patients only need an initial series of deep cleanings. However, you’ll need more frequent maintenance cleanings (every 3-4 months) to prevent gum disease from returning.

Q: Will my insurance cover periodontal deep cleaning?

Most dental insurance plans cover deep cleanings when medically necessary, typically 50-80% of the cost. We’ll help you verify your benefits and provide a treatment estimate before beginning treatment.

Schedule Your Consultation at Southeastern Dental Care

Don’t wait to seek treatment if you’re experiencing signs of gum disease. At Southeastern Dental Care, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive periodontal care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. Our Lakeville dental team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and keeps your gums and teeth in excellent condition. Please call (508) 947-5717 today to schedule your appointment!