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29
Nov
Deep Cleaning Explained: An Essential Treatment for Gum Disease
Your gums are much more than what meets the eye. The gums are an important part of the health of your mouth and also your body as a whole. One important function of the gums is to serve as a protective shield that safeguards underlying bone and connective tissues from harmful bacteria.
Gums can also warn you about an imminent oral health issue, such as bleeding, redness, swelling, and pain. Whenever you experience these symptoms, you should see a dentist right away.
At Albrecht Dentistry, Dr. James (Jim) Albrecht and his team can help you resolve your gum disease infection before it gets worse.
Here are some answers to common questions about gum disease treatment.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease (and the more advanced periodontal disease) is usually caused by the accumulation of harmful bacteria that create a sticky film on your teeth. This film irritates your gums and can cause inflammation, swelling, bleeding, recession, and pain over time. This reaction is your body’s immune response. A few factors that cause gum disease can include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Using tobacco products
- Diabetes
- Genetics
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Certain medications like steroids and oral contraceptives
- Systemic or autoimmune diseases
- Hormonal changes
What Happens if Gum Disease isn’t Treated?
It’s important to understand that ignoring gum disease will not make the problem go away. If left untreated, gum disease can result in various oral and general health issues.
Early signs of gum disease include red-puffy gums that bleed easily and chronic bad breath. If this continues, more advanced problems, such as deepening pockets between the tooth and gums and gum recession, can develop. The underlying bone also begins to develop areas of bone loss. Abscesses can also develop in the deeper pockets. More advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) includes significant bone loss, advanced gum recession, loose teeth, painful chewing, and tooth loss.
However, you’ll also have an increased risk of other issues beyond your mouth, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
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New Patients: (262) 357-6622 | Existing Patients: (262) 338-6622
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What is Deep Cleaning for Gum Disease?
Regular cleanings are for teeth and gums that are in good condition. They’re similar to regular care for your car when it’s running well. However, if something starts to go wrong with your car, routine maintenance won’t fix the problem—it will require extra work. Treating gum disease is the same way—if you develop problems, routing cleanings won’t fix the problem.
To treat gum disease, we can perform more advanced treatments such as laser bacterial reduction, scaling and root planing, and medicaments to fight bacteria and promote gum healing. Root planing and scaling can be a stand-alone treatment or combined with other treatments such as antibiotics.
The first stage of the treatment is scaling, which cleans tartar and plaque from your teeth and just underneath your gum line. Once complete, we move on to root planing, which smooths down your tooth roots to get rid of any leftover bacteria.
Depending on the severity of your infection, this treatment may require several visits. We also offer sedation options for patients who are more sensitive to invasive dental procedures.
After your treatment, your gums may feel slightly swollen and tender to the touch. Dr. Albrecht may prescribe pain relief as needed, but the sensitivity may last up to a week following treatment.
We will also schedule a follow-up visit to assess your progress and determine whether you need further treatment.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Everything we eat and drink has the potential to feed bacteria on and between our teeth. To prevent gum disease, it’s important to brush and floss at least twice daily.
You’ll also need to schedule bi-annual dental visits for deep cleaning that reaches places your toothbrush and dental floss cannot.
And, of course, avoiding or limiting sugary sweets will definitely help.
Where to Find Gum Disease Treatment in West Bend, Wisconsin?
Gum disease is something you should never ignore. Get the treatment you need today by calling Albrecht Dentistry at (262) 357-6622 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Albrecht. Together, we can make your smile healthier than ever.
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Dr James (Jim) Albrecht
Dr. James (Jim) Albrecht has been practicing dentistry for over 36 years. He began his academic journey at the University of Wisconsin, Washington County, later completing his undergraduate studies at UW-Milwaukee. In 1986, he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Marquette University School of Dentistry. Dr. Albrecht is an active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Wisconsin Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. He is passionate about staying current with advances in general and cosmetic dentistry through continuing education.