Deep Teeth Cleaning: Protecting Your Gum Health with Expert Care
Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, lasting smile. When periodontal disease develops, professional intervention is necessary to stop its progression and restore gum health. Dr. Kristen Frazier provides gentle, thorough deep cleaning treatments—scaling and root planing—to remove harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar, helping you maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing are advanced cleaning techniques designed to treat gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease. These non-surgical procedures target bacterial plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) that accumulate below the gumline, causing inflammation and gum disease.
Scaling and root planing may be performed as a standalone treatment or as a preventative measure to stop periodontal disease from advancing. Dr. Frazier carefully evaluates each patient’s needs to determine the most effective approach.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before recommending scaling and root planing, Dr. Kristen Frazier will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays and a visual assessment of your gums. The condition of your gum tissue, the depth of periodontal pockets, and the amount of tartar present will all be considered. In some cases, local anesthesia may be used to ensure a comfortable treatment experience.
- Scaling: This process involves the removal of plaque and hardened calculus from the tooth surfaces, with a special focus on the area below the gumline along the root. Dr. Frazier uses advanced ultrasonic instruments that gently clear away bacterial buildup while also delivering antimicrobial agents to reduce harmful bacteria.
- Root Planing: Once scaling is complete, the root surfaces of the teeth are carefully smoothed to remove toxins and bacteria trapped within the cementum and dentin. This process promotes healing, discourages bacteria from reattaching, and helps the gum tissue reattach to the teeth more securely.
In some cases, Dr. Frazier may recommend antibiotics or antibacterial rinses to further control infection and support the healing process. If deep periodontal pockets remain after scaling and root planing, additional treatments—such as periodontal surgery—may be necessary to restore gum health.
Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing provide numerous benefits for patients with gum disease, including:
- Preventing further disease progression: Removing bacteria and tartar reduces the risk of worsening gum disease.
- Protecting against tooth loss: When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, the likelihood of bone deterioration increases, leading to loose or lost teeth. Scaling and root planing help prevent this damage.
- Supporting overall health: Research shows that bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart and respiratory issues. Deep cleaning treatments remove these harmful bacteria.
- Enhancing your smile: Beyond health benefits, scaling and root planing can also freshen breath and remove superficial stains, leaving you with a cleaner, brighter smile.
Taking the Next Steps Toward Healthier Gums
Dr. Kristen Frazier is dedicated to helping patients prevent and manage gum disease with expert periodontal care. If you are experiencing symptoms such as gum bleeding, sensitivity, or persistent bad breath, scaling and root planing may be the right solution to restore your oral health.
Schedule a consultation to learn more about how deep teeth cleaning can protect your smile for years to come.