Quality Care To Last a Lifetime
Dentist in Lake Worth, FL
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that attacks the gums and surrounding tissue. If left untreated, the disease can cause the underlying bone around the teeth to dissolve, leading to tooth loss. The word “periodontal” means “around the tooth.”
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleanings)
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical dental procedure that involves thorough cleaning of the teeth and roots to treat gum disease. This procedure involves removing plaque and bacteria toxins from above and below the gumline, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to promote gum reattachment and prevent further bacterial growth.
While some patients may not require further treatment after scaling and root planing, most will need ongoing maintenance therapy to keep their mouths healthy.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease is often caused by bacteria and plaque buildup. The primary culprit behind gum disease is the buildup of plaque (which contains various types of bacteria). Other factors that can contribute to gum disease are:
- Genetics
- Lifestyle choices
- A diet low in nutrients
- Smoking or the use of smokeless tobacco
- Autoimmune or systemic diseases
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes in the body
- Bruxism (habitual, involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth)
- Certain medicines
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Frequently Asked Questions
Periodontal services focus on controlling infection and inflammation in the gums and supporting bone that hold teeth in place. It helps stop disease progression, protect natural teeth, and restore healthier gum tissue before more serious damage occurs.
Red, swollen, bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, recession of gum tissue, loose teeth, or changes in bite fit can suggest gum-related concerns that require professional evaluation and treatment.
A complete exam involves measuring pocket depths between teeth and gums, checking for bleeding or inflammation. Your dental professional will possibly take X‑rays to assess bone loss around teeth before establishing the best treatment plan.
Non‑surgical therapy usually involves a thorough cleaning, including scaling and root planing, to gently remove bacterial plaque and hardened tartar from below the gumline. This process helps gums to reconnect and can reduce infection, improving oral health.
Early gum inflammation (gingivitis) can often be resolved with proper care. However, once deeper supporting bone is affected (periodontitis), treatment aims to halt progression rather than fully reverse all damage.
Sedation is typically used to help make procedures more comfortable and less stressful. Afterward, you may notice a bit of mild soreness or sensitivity, but there’s no need to worry; it’s normal and usually improves quickly with gentle aftercare.
Healing times can vary depending on the severity of the issue and the type of care provided. For example, non-surgical treatments might cause gums to settle within a few weeks. However, more advanced therapies could take longer, depending on how your body responds.
Chronic gum infections can affect your overall health, as ongoing inflammation and bacteria might impact other parts of your body. That’s why catching and treating these issues early is so important.
Follow-up visits are usually scheduled a bit more often than regular check-ups, especially if there were periodontal pockets or infection involved. This helps us keep a close eye on healing and makes sure the disease doesn’t come back.
Maintaining a routine of consistent daily brushing, gentle flossing, and regular professional cleanings plays a crucial role in keeping plaque at bay and nurturing your long-term gum health. It happens especially when combined with any professional treatments.
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