Teeth Cleaning
What is a gum disease or periodontal disease?
Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum tissue that can progress to affect the teeth and the supporting bone that surrounds the teeth. The deposition of plaque, tartar, bacteria, acids and certain foods contribute to the development of gum disease. There are 3 stages of gum diseases from least to most severe are Gingivitis, Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis.
If you experience any of these sign, then it is an alam of gum disease
- Red, swollen ar tender gums or other pain in your mouth.
- Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food.
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth.
- Sensitivity of teeth while eating hot or cold beverages
- Persistent bad breath.
- Pus between your gums and teeth. Change in bite.
- Change in bite
However this can be prevented by detecting plaque and calculus at earliest and going for routine scaling and polishing of teeth.
What is dental plaque and calculus?
Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth and along the gum line Plaque contains bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. As plaque forms and is not removed by proper brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar (calculus)
Calculus
which is calcified (or hardened) plaque that attaches to the enamel on your teeth, as well as below the gum line. Once tartar has formed, only your dentist or dental hygienist can remove it professionally through scaling.
What is Scaling & Root Planing?
Dental Scaling is the process by which plaque and calculus are removed from the tooth surfaces. It "deep cleans' at and below the gum line. Dental scaling occurs with manual hand instruments, ultrasonic Instruments or both. The dentist will start the procedure with a thorough examination of your mouth. Next, an ultrasonic scaling device will be used to eliminate the plaque calculus with sonic vibrations.
Root Planing
Root Planing is the process of smoothening and polishing of the root surfaces and to remove the infected tooth structure. Having a smooth, disease-free root also helps your gums heal and attach back onto your teeth.
Why is dental scaling important for oral health?
- It helps eliminate bad breath: One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is halitosis (bad breath).
- It helps prevent bleeding of gums: Inadequate plaque removal cause the gums to bleed Routine scaling will help to prevent deposits of plaque.
- Tooth loss prevention: Pockets between gums or around the tooth roots can lead to tooth loss Scaling and planing cures these conditions before any serious consequences.
- Aesthetic effects: Scaling and root planing help remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline.
- Disease prevention: Scaling and root planing remove bacteria and stop periodontal disease from progressing and thus prevent from general health disease.
So, if your dentist recommends scaling and root planing for you, rest assured it’ll put you on the road to good periodontal health!
Taking Care after Scaling and Planing
It is important to take care of your teeth even after correcting gum diseases with scaling and planing. You should always:
- Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.
- Floss daily.
- Get in the habit of using a mouthwash.
- Quit smoking.
- Visit your dentist regularly for oral health check up.
- Dental scaling must be done once in every six month.
