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Periodontal Disease or "gum disease" is a chronic infection of the gum tissues and the underlying bone that supports the teeth. Periodontal disease is now the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. Factors that contribute to periodontal disease include: plaque/tarter build-up, a lack of regular dental cleanings, poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes and other systemic diseases. Symptoms of periodontitis include: gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, swollen gums, receding gums, bad breath and/or loose teeth.

***Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are extremely important for the prevention of periodontal / gum disease. Routine cleanings are recommended by the American Dental Association every 3-6 months depending on the health of your gums.

 

(Click on images to enlarge) Healthy   Periodontal Disease Healthy Periodontal Disease The following is a list of dental cleanings/therapies which we provide: Prophy (Standard Dental Cleaning): A "prophy" is a standard, gentle cleaning of the mouth with ultrasonic scaling, a rubber dental wheel, fluoride paste and floss. Most patients fall into this category. Prophies are indicated for light plaque and tarter removal. Regular cleanings are essential for the maintenance of gingival health and the prevention of periodontal / gum disease. Routine check-ups and cleanings for relatively healthy mouths are recommended every 6 months. Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning):  Scaling & Root Planning or a "deep cleaning" is indicated for patients with heavy tarter build-up and unhealthy gums. Deep cleanings are usually necessary for patients who haven’t had a cleaning in several years. Ultrasonic scaling and hand instruments are used to precisely clean around your teeth to remove plaque and mineralized tarter build-up. Deep cleanings may require two appointments for patients who haven’t had a cleaning in four or more years and have heavy amounts of tarter build-up. Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings: Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings are intended for patients who have periodontal disease, receding gums and "bone loss". These cleanings are generally recommended for people who have advanced gum disease and may be recommended every 3-4 months. These cleanings take more time than regular "prophies" and are intended to maintain the foundation (bone levels) of the teeth and keep bacteria in the mouth at a minimum so no further damage is done.