Periodontal Therapy

Our teeth require daily attention, but our gums also play a remarkably important role in our dental health and even our overall health. It’s why you’ll often hear that flossing is as important as brushing. Plaque and calculus tartar that can build up on our teeth can lead to infection, gum disease, and the infection can spread to other areas of our bodies. Removing bacteria, plaque, and tartar is more than just a matter of hygiene. When a dentist recommends measures to help improve the health of your gums, it can mean various approaches ranging from medicine or mouth rinses to scraping under the surface of the gums. In severe cases, periodontal surgery is needed.

What Is Involved in a Deep Cleaning for My Gums?

During a routine checkup, our hygienists will clear away plaque and tartar they see on the surface of your teeth. But the area under your gum line is vulnerable to infection, and sometimes extra measures are needed to clear away the bacteria that has collected there. 

Using special tools, Dr. Pinson can perform a deep cleaning that involves scaling, or scraping away tartar that has built up. The real challenge when gums get infected comes when the gum separates from the tooth. The pocket that forms can invite all sorts of unwanted germs and bacteria. So, Dr. Pinson’s goal in a root planing procedure is to smooth the surface of your tooth root below the gum line, encouraging your gums to cling tightly to your tooth again. Our gums tend to recede as we grow older, but good hygiene can keep your gums healthy and prevent a dangerous amount of gum recession. 

Do I Need a Separate Appointment for Scaling and Root Planing?

Yes, typically, a separate appointment or two is needed to complete the process of scaling and root planing. You shouldn’t feel too much during the procedure because we will numb the area where we’ll be working to help you stay as comfortable as possible.

Does Dr. Pinson Offer Gum Therapy?

Yes, as a comprehensive dental practice, Dr. Pinson and our dental experts can provide many ways to clean and improve your gums. If more serious measures need to be taken, we will refer you to a specialist we trust. 

Can I Do Some Scaling at Home?

A toothbrush isn’t able to remove all 100% of plaque, and while you can purchase a plaque scraper to use a home, we don’t recommend it. You run the risk of damaging your gums if you hurt them with a sharp tool, and it’s difficult to remove plaque under the gum line on your own. During regular checkups, we can give your teeth a deeper cleaning than you can at home. But we encourage you to keep up with your at-home oral care routine to prevent gum disease, like brushing your teeth and flossing daily.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office via phone, email, or schedule an appointment online.