Perio Cleaning: Protecting Your Gums

Perio Cleaning: Protecting Your GumsMost oral health problems can be prevented by having a strong oral hygiene routine and by visiting your dentist every six months. Good oral hygiene of brushing and flossing at least twice a day lessens the amount of harmful bacteria on your teeth and gums. Visiting your dentist every six months allows for your dentist to diagnose problems early before they develop into something more serious. Regular dental visits also means regular professional dental cleanings. A normal professional cleaning of your teeth can get a deeper clean than you can get at home. It is also a time when your dentist and hygienist can identify if you may need a periodontal cleaning

What is a periodontal cleaning?

A perio cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing, is a deep cleaning under the gums. During your regular cleaning, your dentist or hygienist may notice a build-up of plaque and tartar under the gums. This build-up creates pockets in the gums that can get inflamed and infected causing gum disease. Removing the build-up from the gums with scaling and root planing can usually reverse gum disease at its early stages.

What if gum disease goes untreated?

Gingivitis is the early form of gum disease. It is mild and common. The gums become red, swollen, and irritated from the build-up of plaque and tartar. They may bleed easily. Over time, the inflammation can cause an infection and lead to the serious form of gum disease, periodontitis. Periodontitis weakens the gums and can even lead to a risk of tooth loss, as the gums continue to recede from the teeth. There is a risk that oral infections can travel to other parts of the body increasing your risk for stroke and heart disease.

A perio cleaning can help prevent gum disease

Regular dentist check-ups and cleanings are important. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Folck, Dr. Maddux, or Dr. Phaup, call Absolute Dental Care in Virginia Beach, VA, today at (757) 428-7440. We also proudly welcome patients of all ages from Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hampton, Eastern Shore, and all surrounding communities.