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A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths tooth roots to help gums reattach
• Halts the progression of active gum disease and prevents tooth loss.
• Smooths rough root surfaces to prevent future bacteria buildup.
• Performed with local anesthesia for your complete comfort.
Patients diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease) who have deep gum pockets and tartar buildup below the gumline.
We carefully clean deep gum pockets and smooth the tooth roots. You may experience mild, temporary sensitivity or slight bleeding as your gums begin to heal and tighten.
Seeing blood in the sink can be alarming, but bleeding gums are actually a very common sign of inflammation (gingivitis) caused by plaque and tartar buildup along the gumline.
When we gently clean away that bacteria, the inflamed tissue may bleed slightly. The best way to stop the bleeding is to keep up with your professional cleanings and your daily brushing and flossing at home. As your gums become healthier and tighter, the bleeding will completely stop!
This is one of the most common questions we get! The difference comes down to maintenance versus treatment.
• Prophylaxis (Regular Cleaning): This is a preventive measure for patients with generally healthy gums. We remove plaque, tartar, and stains from above the gumline to keep your smile healthy and bright.
• Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This is a therapeutic procedure for patients actively showing signs of gum disease (like deep gum pockets or bone loss). We clean below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and heal.
You should consider seeing a periodontist if you experience persistent bleeding gums, receding gums, loose teeth, or if your general dentist recommends specialized care for advanced gum disease or dental implant placement. Our in-house specialist, Dr. Anass Koleilat, is here to provide you with the highest level of expert care.
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease, as well as the placement of dental implants. To earn this title, they complete an additional three years of rigorous, specialized training beyond dental school, making them true experts in the supporting structures of your teeth.
Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs or travel through the bloodstream. In vulnerable individuals, this can potentially cause respiratory infections like pneumonia or worsen existing conditions like COPD. Keeping your mouth healthy is an important step in protecting your respiratory system.
Both osteoporosis and periodontal disease involve bone loss. Research indicates that postmenopausal women with osteoporosis may be at a higher risk for tooth loss and progressive periodontal bone loss. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits is crucial for protecting your jawbone health.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Furthermore, severe, untreated gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight. We highly recommend a dental checkup early in your pregnancy to ensure a healthy environment for both you and your baby.
Research suggests a strong link between oral health and cardiovascular health. The chronic inflammation caused by periodontal disease may contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Treating gum disease can help reduce this systemic inflammation.
The relationship between gum disease and diabetes is bidirectional. Diabetes increases your risk of developing periodontal disease because it impairs the body's ability to fight infection. Conversely, severe gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, potentially worsening diabetes. Managing both conditions together is key to your overall health.
While only a professional exam can definitively diagnose gum disease, you can check yourself for these warning signs: Do your gums bleed when you brush? Are they pulling away from your teeth? Do you have persistent bad breath, pus between your teeth and gums, or notice any teeth feeling loose? If you answer "yes" to any of these, please schedule an evaluation with us promptly.
Gum disease can be "silent" in its early stages, but common signs include:• Gums that are red, swollen, or tender.• Bleeding during brushing or flossing.• Receding gums (teeth looking "longer").• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.• Loose teeth or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
The primary cause is plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar. Other contributing factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking or tobacco use, genetics, hormonal changes, certain medications that cause dry mouth, and systemic conditions like diabetes.
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and the supporting bone that holds your teeth in place. It typically begins as gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and can progress to periodontitis if plaque and tartar are not regularly removed. The good news? It is highly preventable and, when caught early, very treatable.
