Periodontal Program
When you require laser deep cleaning, we also suggest you take part in our Perio Program. This program helps us get a full picture of your periodontal heal needs, and gives you clear steps to improve your oral health.
The Perio Program includes:
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- Perio Protect – tray therapy that treats gum disease and helps to prevent further bone loss
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- Full-Mouth Debridement – removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your entire mouth
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- Customized Treatment Plan – choosing the right way forward for your specific situation
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- Bone Loss Evaluation – determining if you are a candidate for dental implants
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- Laser Bacterial Reduction – using lasers to deep clean your mouth
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, ranging from mild gum inflammation to severe damage to the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth, affects a significant portion of adults. Without intervention, it can lead to tooth loss, impacting not just your smile but your ability to speak and eat comfortably. More than a dental issue, gum disease is linked to systemic health conditions, emphasizing the need for comprehensive oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
The Role of Deep Cleaning in Oral Health
Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a specialized procedure designed to halt the progression of gum disease by meticulously cleaning between the gums and teeth down to the roots. This treatment involves:
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- Scaling: The removal of tartar (hardened plaque) from above and below the gum line, addressing the root cause of gum inflammation and bleeding.
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- Root Planing: Smoothing rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria gather, helping to prevent further plaque buildup and gum disease.
Performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort, this procedure is both gentle and effective, with minimal discomfort experienced by most patients.
Identifying Signs of Gum Disease
Awareness of gum disease symptoms is vital for early intervention and treatment. Key indicators include:
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- Red, swollen, or tender gums
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- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
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- Receding gums, making teeth appear longer
If you notice any of these signs, we encourage you to visit Encinitas Dental Art for a comprehensive evaluation.
What to Expect During and After Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is typically performed over multiple appointments, focusing on one quadrant of the mouth at a time to ensure thorough treatment. Each session lasts about an hour, contributing to a manageable and effective care plan.
Post-treatment, you may experience some soreness and sensitivity, which can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medication. We recommend gentle brushing and flossing, alongside salt water or chlorhexidine rinses, as advised by our team, to support healing and comfort.
Holistic Care Beyond the Procedure
Following your deep cleaning, adopting a diligent oral hygiene routine is crucial for maintaining gum health and preventing recurrence. Regular check-ups at Encinitas Dental Art allow us to monitor your progress and ensure your gums and teeth remain healthy and strong.
Our comprehensive approach to dental care includes discussing your overall health history before undergoing scaling and root planing. This ensures we tailor your treatment to mitigate any risks, especially for those with conditions that could be impacted by the procedure, such as heart disease or immune system disorders.
At Encinitas Dental Art, we’re dedicated to providing holistic, family-focused dental care that addresses not just your oral health needs but your overall well-being. Our team is here to guide you through every step of your gum disease treatment, helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.