BASIC CLEANING VERSUS DEEP CLEANING

Keeping teeth and gums clean is the primary defense against harmful bacteria that cause inflammation and infection. That is why a thorough twice-daily flossing and brushing regimen helps to protect the gums and prevent periodontal disease (aka gum disease, which includes gingivitis and periodontitis).

However, bacteria, plaque, and tartar pockets can still build up on the teeth and along the gum line, especially in hard-to-reach places. That is why it is so important to visit the dentist biannually for a supplemental deep cleaning and checkup. These pockets can cause periodontal disease, resulting in tooth loss and changes in tooth orientation (bite).

WHAT IS A DEEP CLEANING?

The deep cleaning process you will experience at Just Brush My Teeth involves a technique called scaling and root planing. Your dentist will remove pockets of bacteria, tartar, and plaque from the roots of the teeth, preventing inflammation and the spread of infection that causes periodontal disease. If you have many pockets or your gums are already affected, you may need follow-up appointments to ensure you remain periodontal disease-free.

WHY IS A DEEP CLEANING NECESSARY?

A good home oral hygiene routine can only do so much. Deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from where your toothbrush cannot reach – the buildup beneath your gums and between your teeth. Furthermore, your dentist will check for early signs of periodontal disease and other oral health issues. Prevention is the best defense!

Periodontal disease is America’s leading cause of tooth loss, but it is reversible when caught early. That is why biannual visits to Just Brush My Teeth protect your gums and your teeth from falling out – they stop periodontal disease in its tracks. As a bonus, you could save lots of money from avoiding invasive dental work in the future.

If you visit the dentist biannually, it is doubtful that you will suffer from periodontitis (the advanced stage of periodontal disease). Your dentist will help you maintain optimal oral hygiene.

However, if you only visit the dentist when something is wrong, you run a greater risk of irreversible damage to the bone and soft tissues that support your teeth. Unfortunately, it may seem like nothing is wrong, but you do not experience some of the symptoms of periodontal disease right away.

Let Just Brush My Teeth keep your mouth free of periodontal disease. Schedule biannual dental cleanings with our dentists, who can spot and treat periodontal disease before it progresses. Contact our office to share your oral health concerns and find more information about lowering your risk of gum disease.