What Is the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?
Periodontal disease includes gingivitis and periodontitis. The difference between gingivitis and periodontitis is that, in periodontitis, there is bone loss. Bone loss refers to the decreased level of bone that hold your teeth in place. As the bone loss progresses, teeth completely lose their support and become loose, eventually needing to be extracted.
The risk of bone loss increases from the accumulation of calculus, bacteria, and pathogens, which the body cannot remove on its own. Over time, as the buildup remains on your teeth and below your gums, more bacteria can easily attach to the existing calculus and your body cannot maintain the healthy levels of bone.
Dr. Vahe begins your oral health evaluation with a thorough exam to make sure your gums and underlying bone remain healthy for as long as possible. With the proposed treatment, his goal is to maintain a healthy periodontium and not lose any bone or teeth.
Why Are Deep Cleanings Needed?
If clinical attachment loss (bone-loss) is diagnosed during an exam, the recommended treatment is scaling and root planing (deep cleaning). During this procedure, under local anesthesia, Dr. Vahe will clean the calculus and build-up that is causing bone-loss from the surfaces of your teeth underneath your gums.
What Is the Deep Cleaning Process?
During your deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) appointment, with the use of local anesthesia, Dr. Vahe will clean the plaque and calculus from all surfaces of your teeth, as well as the build-up below your gums. Next, your teeth will be polished and flossed. The appointment will close with a review of your oral hygiene routine. This will restore a healthy environment for your gums, reduce bad breath, and prevent further bone loss and inflammation.
What Do You Need to Do After a Deep Cleaning?
Once the deep cleaning is completed, it is your job to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your teeth until your next cleaning appointment. Once a patient receives a deep cleaning, the next cleaning is scheduled in 3-4 months. The reason this cleaning is recommended in a shorter time period is to maintain the remaining level of bone.
