A periodontal cleaning, or deep cleaning, is a dental treatment focused on removing plaque, bacteria and tartar build-up from the gum pocket and root surfaces. This process can help prevent and treat periodontal (gum) disease. Recognizing the signs of gum disease is crucial for prompt intervention to maintain oral health.
Periodontitis is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque to build up along the gumline. This plaque irritates the gums, causing inflammation, which eventually leads to the formation of deep pockets. Additionally, smoking, genetics, diabetes and stress can increase the risk of developing periodontitis.
According to T. Attin, E. Hornecker’s 2005 review “Tooth Brushing to Maintain Oral Health: How Frequently and When,” brushing teeth once a day can maintain oral health and prevent cavities and periodontal diseases. However, their study shows that most patients are not able to achieve sufficient plaque removal by performing oral hygiene measures at home, hence regular tooth brushing twice daily is usually recommended by dentists. Cleaning your teeth after meals is often recommended to eliminate food impactions and shorten the duration of sugary food impact.
Periodontal cleaning, also known as part of a deep dental cleaning procedure, involves scaling and root planing. The tooth scaling appointment is when a dentist removes plaque and tartar below the gum line. During the root planing visit, your dentist removes plaque and tartar that form on the roots of your teeth. This helps reduce the size of the space between your teeth and gums, enabling your gums to reattach to the teeth and promote healing. Antibiotics may be prescribed for those with compromised immune systems to minimize the risk of infection after the procedure.
If you’re interested in a periodontal cleaning, contact a Certified TeethXpress Provider.
In this article, we discuss seven indicators that suggest a periodontal cleaning is needed as soon as possible:
- Persistent toothache
- Loose or missing teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession
- Gum swelling and discomfort
- Tooth sensitivity to cold
Persistent toothache
Persistent toothache can signal the need for periodontal cleaning since it might be a symptom of gum disease, particularly periodontitis, which can lead to deep pockets forming between teeth and gums. These pockets can fill with bacteria and cause bone loss.
A toothache can occur for various reasons, including temporary gum irritation or bacterial infection. However, severe and persistent toothaches require professional dental treatment.
The severity of toothaches can result from cavities, infections or other dental conditions that won’t improve on their own. You must seek dental treatment like cleaning if you have a severe toothache. Untreated dental issues can cause more pain and potentially lead to complications such as tooth loss or the spread of infection to other parts of the body.
Specific toothache symptoms can vary but may include a dull, persistent toothache; sharp, jabbing tooth pain; throbbing tooth pain; teeth sensitivity; or sensitivity. Other symptoms might include fever, chills, bad breath or sour taste.
In some cases, a toothache might not be caused by dental issues. However, it could be related to other health conditions such as TMJ, ear infections, sinus problems or even heart conditions. However, it’s crucial to have a dental examination to rule out any dental issues.
Loose or missing teeth
Loose or missing teeth can signify periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gum and/or bone tissues that support your teeth. This infection, which results from bacterial plaque in the absence of effective oral hygiene, can lead to the breakdown of ligaments and bone supporting the teeth, causing them to loosen or fall out. Therefore, if you have loose or missing teeth, it is essential to undergo periodontal cleaning, also known as deep cleaning, to remove subgingival plaque and tartar and halt the progression of periodontal disease.
Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums can indicate various causes, such as poor oral hygiene, which can lead to gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Improper dental care can lead to plaque build-up and inflammation of the gums, making them prone to bleeding. To prevent bleeding from poor oral hygiene, visit a dentist regularly for cleanings, practice good oral care at home and maintain a healthy diet.
When bleeding gums last for an extended period or have no apparent cause, consult a healthcare provider to rule out other health issues like diabetes, blood-clotting disorders and even stress.
If dentures or oral appliances cause bleeding, contact a dentist or orthodontist for a better-fitting mouthpiece. In the meantime, home remedies such as warm salt water rinses, gentle brushing and avoiding hard foods can help reduce discomfort and bleeding.
Persistent bad breath
Chronic bad breath can also be a sign of periodontal disease. This bacterial infection affects the gums and bones that support the teeth. The bacterial infection causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, leaving deep pockets that fill with odor-causing bacteria. If traditional methods to remove these bacteria fail, a dentist may refer you to a periodontist for cleaning.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to reducing or preventing bad breath. Regularly brushing teeth after meals, flossing daily and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help. A tongue scraper may also provide additional relief. Staying hydrated can prevent a dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath. For chronic cases, seeking help from a dentist is necessary to identify the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
For those who have persistent bad breath despite maintaining good oral hygiene, other health conditions may be the cause. These include diabetes, respiratory tract infections, liver or kidney disease and certain medications. If this is the case, seeing a primary healthcare professional or a specialist may be necessary.
In addition to proper oral hygiene, lifestyle changes such as avoiding foods that stimulate body odor, using a straw when consuming beverages with sugar, and flossing daily can help prevent bad breath. It’s also important to replace toothbrushes every three to four months and schedule regular dental checkups twice a year. If bad breath continues, a dentist can help identify the root cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Gum recession
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots underneath and making them vulnerable to decay, infection and loss.
Mild cases may not require treatment, but gentle brushing techniques and regular monitoring can help prevent further recession. For more severe cases, treatment options include:
- Desensitizing agents, varnishes and dentin bonding agents to reduce tooth sensitivity
- Composite restoration to cover the root surface with tooth-colored composite resins
- Pink porcelain or composite to fill gaps where gums have receded
- Removable gum veneers to artificially replace missing gum tissue
- Orthodontics to reposition teeth and correct the gum margin
If you suspect gum recession, consider going in for a periodontal checkup.
Gum swelling and discomfort
Swelling and discomfort in the gums could be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease, an inflammation and infection that affects your gums and the bones supporting your teeth.
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, may cause your gums to swell, turn red, bleed easily and become painful. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that may result in the loosening and eventual loss of teeth. The swollen gums may protrude or hide parts of your teeth, causing them to appear longer. Chronic inflammation associated with gum disease can increase the risk of systemic conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.
If your gums remain swollen for more than two weeks, seek professional dental care from a dentist or periodontist since gum disease often requires specific treatment methods. In addition to cleaning, deep scaling and root planing, laser therapies, and antibiotic treatments may be necessary to address advanced gum disease. A dentist or periodontist will also assess for other potential causes of swollen gums, including viral or fungal infections and nutrient deficiencies.
Tooth sensitivity to cold
Teeth that are sensitive to cold may also feel sensitive to hot food or drinks for a day or two following a dental filling because of:
- Air getting under the filling causes the teeth to feel sensitive
- Gum tissue experiencing temporary irritation from placement of the filling results in increased tooth sensitivity temporarily
If your tooth sensitivity persists, it would be wise to seek a dental consultation to determine the root cause.
Common remedies that can lessen sensitivity in the short term are:
- Mouthwashes with fluoride used at least twice daily
- Desensitizing toothpaste, especially after meals
- Regular fluoride applications by dental professionals
If tooth sensitivity does not subside in two to three weeks, visit a dental professional as soon as possible. A dental professional will be able to provide long-term relief of discomfort and help establish an individualized oral care treatment plan that considers factors like enamel erosion and sensitivity related to root exposure from gum recession.
How quickly should I see a dentist if I notice these signs?
Immediately. Signs like swollen or bleeding gums, persistent tooth pain and loosened or shifting teeth require prompt attention from a dentist. An untreated dental issue can lead to more severe complications, causing more harm and potential tooth loss. Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining oral health, and in the event of any concerning symptoms, seeking professional help should be your priority.
Is periodontal cleaning an emergency procedure?
Periodontal cleaning, or periodontal maintenance, is a professional dental cleaning procedure for individuals with a history of periodontal (gum) disease. Unlike regular teeth cleanings, periodontal maintenance is a treatment to prevent and control periodontal disease. The process involves removing bacteria, plaque and tartar build-up, which can cause or worsen gum issues. In some cases, immediate care may be required for periodontal emergencies because delayed therapy could result in additional discomfort, increased bone loss and damage to other periodontal tissues. Emergency treatment for periodontal emergencies can involve cleaning the operculum area under anesthesia, if necessary. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are typically performed three to four times a year, as determined by the hygienist or dentist and based on factors such as the individual’s overall oral health and the severity of the periodontal disease.
What does periodontal cleaning involve?
A periodontal cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, involves removing tartar build-up between teeth and gums and thoroughly cleaning the gumline. It may require multiple visits, with each session addressing a portion of the teeth and gums. The process is designed to eliminate bacterial accumulation and treat periodontal disease. Regular cleanings, on the other hand, are preventive measures performed at less frequent intervals.
What are the long-term consequences of untreated periodontal disease?
Untreated, periodontal disease can lead to several severe health issues. Bacteria and tartar accumulation can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic problems such as arthritis, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Long-term inflammation can also result in gum recession, bone damage and tooth loss. Periodontal disease can exacerbate other inflammation-causing illnesses and has even been linked to high blood pressure. If left untreated, it may cause permanent damage; in severe cases, it could lead to tooth loss. It is crucial to seek dental treatment for periodontal disease to maintain oral and overall health.
Are you concerned about your oral health? Contact a Certified TeethXpress Provider as a first step.
