While visiting our East Bay Dental office, we ensure that you receive the highest standard of dental care and the finest quality of treatment. This commitment to excellence should also extend to your own dental hygiene regimen to guarantee that you maintain excellent oral health. We are here to assist you in developing a dental hygiene regimen as well as a preventative dental care plan to keep your teeth healthy and white. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding your current hygiene plan. It is important to remember that, just like your teeth, your gums play a crucial role in oral hygiene.

The Link between Oral hygiene and Periodontal health

Periodontal disease is a complex disorder in which germs penetrate beyond the gum tissue, making them difficult to effectively cleanse or eliminate through regular dental care. If not regularly removed by a dental professional, these bacteria begin to erode the gum tissue and bone that surround the teeth. Receiving early treatment and being diligent about maintenance are both essential for effective periodontal disease management and tooth loss prevention. Proper therapy also reduces bacteria, which can be highly detrimental to other regions of the body.

Components of Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal therapy is more comprehensive and extensive compared to basic tooth care and evaluations. This includes

Regular dental cleanings
Measurement of gingival pockets, gum grafts, pocket reduction, regeneration, X-ray examinations, and visual assessments.
Oral cancer screenings
Implant placement and dental crown procedure

Scaling and Root planing

Scaling and root planing is a thorough cleaning performed beneath the gumline to treat gum disease. This deep cleaning is divided into two stages. Scaling is the process by which your dentist eliminates all plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and below the gum line, cleaning all the way down to the bottom of the pocket. Your dentist will then begin root planing, which involves smoothing out the roots of your teeth in order to let your gums reattach to your teeth. Scaling and root planing may require more than one visit and may necessitate the use of a local anesthetic.

You may experience discomfort for a day or two after a deep cleaning, along with tooth sensitivity that can last up to a week. Your gums may also be swollen, sensitive, and may bleed. Your dentist may recommend a tablet or mouth rinse to help you recover or prevent infection. Additionally, they may apply medicine (subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline) directly into the cleansed pocket.

Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing of your gums and assess the depth of your pockets. If they have progressed, more therapy may be required.

At East Bay Dental, we prioritize the well-being of our patients. If you're looking to enhance your smile, we invite you to reach out to us and explore the range of periodontal treatments we offer. Your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile begins here. Contact us today!