How Scaling and Planing Can Heal Your Gum Tissue
Gum disease is a top cause of tooth loss among adults, and while it’s really common, the good news is it can be treated — and even prevented. Here’s how root planing and scaling can help.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease
Did you know about half of all American adults have some degree of gum disease? it’s true — and it’s especially alarming, because in addition to being a leading cause of adult tooth loss, periodontal disease has also been linked with other serious medical problems.
Hiba Zakhour, DDS, and the team at A to Z Dental Studio take periodontal disease very seriously, offering comprehensive care aimed not only at treating disease, but at preventing it, too. This post offers some simple steps you can take to prevent gum disease, as well as a brief overview of the treatment options we offer to people already diagnosed with periodontal problems.
How gum disease happens
Gum disease is caused by bacteria that invade the gums, including the tissues that support your teeth. These bacteria often live in sticky plaque and hard tartar deposits along the gum line and between your teeth.
When these bacteria multiply, they release toxins that irritate your gums. In response, your gum tissue “shrinks away” from the bacteria on the tooth surface, creating pockets around your teeth that make it easier for bacteria to reach deeper layers of tissue.
Without treatment, bacteria continue to invade and infect deeper layers of tissue, finally reaching the area around the tooth roots. The resulting infection and inflammation weakens teeth, dramatically increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Signs and symptoms
Gum disease happens in stages. The mildest stage — gingivitis — causes symptoms like:
- Gum redness
- Painless bleeding around one or more teeth
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Tenderness when gums are touched
Very mild gingivitis may cause symptoms that are so subtle, they can really only be detected during a dental exam.
As gum disease progresses, you may develop symptoms like:
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Loose teeth
- Changes in your bite
- Sensitive teeth
- Persistent bad breath
The most severe form of gum disease is called periodontitis, and this is the stage when tooth loss can occur.
Preventing gum disease
The effects of gum disease can be serious, but fortunately, there are ways to prevent it. The most important way to stop gum disease in its tracks: Practice good oral hygiene habits. That means regular brushing and flossing using proper techniques and having dental checkups twice a year.
During your checkup, Dr. Zakhour looks for subtle signs of gum disease so she can administer special preventive treatments. That could include extra cleanings, at-home care, or deep cleaning treatments called scaling and planing to reach bacteria below the gums.
You can also decrease your risk of gum disease by quitting smoking and by limiting sugary snacks. Why? Because bacteria that cause gum disease like sugar as much as you do, and when you eat a lot of sugars, you’re feeding those bacteria, too.
Drinking plenty of water is also important. Water helps keep your mouth moist, supporting some of its natural defenses against disease. Plus, water washes away bacteria and food particles that can feed them.
Save your smile: Treat periodontal disease
Since early gum disease is hard to spot, having regular dental visits is the best way to make sure your gums stay healthy. In addition to routine cleanings, Dr. Zakhour uses deep-cleaning techniques called scaling and planing to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar below the gums, along with other procedures to restore gums and protect the roots of your teeth.
If you suspect you have gum disease or if you’re overdue for your regular dental exam, call 571-290-7059 or book an appointment online at our Fairfax, Virginia, office today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
4 Reasons to Consider Sealants for Your Teeth
Most people think dental sealants are just for kids, but adults can benefit, too. Here are four important benefits you should know about — whether you’re considering sealants for yourself or for your child.
Invisalign: Straighten Your Teeth Without Anyone Noticing
There are lots of reasons to choose Invisalign®. One of the most popular reasons: the clear design. In fact, the aligners’ patented material is so clear, there’s a good chance no one will know you’re wearing them. Here’s the scoop.
Why Do I Need a Dental Implant?
Missing teeth have a direct impact on your confidence, and they can increase your risk of future tooth loss, too. Dental implants are popular for lots of reasons, including the five listed here. Learn why you need an implant after tooth loss.
The Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings
Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for helping you maintain your beautiful smile. If you’re tempted to skip your next cleaning appointment, here are five reasons why you shouldn’t.
Does My Child Need Sealants?
Sealants are one more tool your dentist can use to help your child avoid cavities in the future. But does your child really need them? Yes! Here’s why.