Achieve Healthy, Infection-free Gums with Deep Teeth Cleaning

Gum disease is one of the most serious threats to oral and overall health. Left untreated, it weakens the teeth-supporting structures, causing tooth loss. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and other systemic conditions. 

The good news? Gum disease is treatable! Treatment is as simple as ramping up oral hygiene when detected early. However, when you have moderate to severe gum disease, Glendale Dental Wellness recommends deep teeth cleaning as a non-surgical gum disease treatment. 

How is gum disease diagnosed?

We always check your gums every time you visit our dental office. When we detect gum disease, we’ll determine the appropriate treatment after a diagnosis. Along with examining symptoms, we use a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the space between your teeth and gums (sulcus). In healthy gums, this space measures no more than 3mm. Deeper readings indicate gum disease, with higher numbers signifying more advanced stages. If we suspect bone loss, we’ll take digital X-rays to assess the extent of bone deterioration.

What can I expect from deep teeth cleaning?

Dr. Ivan Chan uses a conservative approach to treat gum disease. We treat gingivitis (the earliest form of gum disease) with standard cleanings and optimal oral hygiene. However, deep teeth cleaning will be the preferred treatment if your gum disease is past the gingivitis stage.

This non-surgical periodontal treatment involves two procedures. Scaling removes tartar and harmful bacteria from the deep periodontal pockets between teeth and gums. Root planing polishes your roots to remove rough spots that encourage bacterial invasions. Ultimately, scaling and root planing (SRP) halts the infection to promote gum tissue reattachment to your teeth.

What should I expect from deep teeth cleaning?

Periodontal cleanings are more thorough than standard cleanings because the dentist removes unhealthy deposits from the base of the root. The dentist will precisely numb your gums with local anesthetics for optimal comfort. If you are nervous about your treatment, you can talk to us about sedation dentistry.

Depending on the severity of your infection, you may need 1-3 visits. The dentist treats each half (or quadrant) of your mouth, allowing you to use the other half between appointments. After treatment, you may experience mild bleeding, pain, swelling, and increased sensitivity.

Our team will give aftercare tips to manage discomfort and ensure seamless recovery. We’ll also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your treatment progress. Most patients only need SRP, but the dentist will recommend other advanced treatments if you aren’t responding to treatment.

What are the benefits of scaling and root planing?

SRP is an effective non-surgical treatment for moderate to severe periodontal disease. Deep teeth cleaning has several benefits.

  • Halts the progression of gum disease
  • Rebuilds your oral functionality
  • Restores your aesthetics 
  • Protects other periodontal structures from damage
  • It’s effective and non-surgical
  • Eliminates bad breath (halitosis)

Do you need deep teeth cleaning?

Do you suspect a gum infection? Let us help you fight periodontal disease. Our office provides advanced periodontal care in Glendale, California, and nearby locations. Call 818-243-3838 to reserve your consultation with Dr. Chan.