Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance

Unfortunately, a great number of people come to dentists with symptoms of periodontal disease. In such a case, dentists have to recommend periodontal cleaning or maintenance for maintaining the gum and bone health of the patient.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease or periodontitis, starts due to the growth of bacteria in the mouth. If left untreated, the disease can lead to tooth loss as the tissue becomes destroyed. Before periodontitis sets in, the patient will experience gum inflammation, which is called gingivitis.

At some point, most people suffer from gingivitis; however, the symptoms are mild so it goes untreated. On the other hand, not all gingivitis cases lead to the disease.

Symptoms of periodontitis include red, tender, and swollen gums, bleeding gums when a person brushes or flosses, pain while chewing, bad breath, loose teeth, and gum pockets as deep as 5 mm.

What is Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance is a type of dental cleaning, but more thorough than regular cleaning. It is specifically designed for people with periodontal disease.

The cleaning, which includes scaling and root planing, helps control the progression of periodontal disease. Your dentist will recommend periodontal maintenance depending on the extent of gum disease in your case.

It is important to remember that it is not possible to reverse the disease completely, but visiting your dentist for all the scheduled periodontal cleanings can help control it — maintaining your gum and bone health.

Benefits of Periodontal Cleaning

Here are some significant benefits of the treatment:

Brushing and flossing at home is not enough — not to mention that most people are not regular with flossing. This means that bacteria and other deposits are left behind in the gum pockets, which leads to tartar build-up. On the other hand, if you receive regular deep cleanings, you can prevent this complication
When the cleaning removes the plaque and other deposits below your gum line, it helps prevent gum infection, which is a cause of bad breath. Therefore, periodontal cleaning can help you achieve a fresher breath
Following a regular periodontal maintenance session at your dentist, you will enjoy teeth that are without stains and yellowness. This will give you a better smile, hence, increased confidence
Some people do not take periodontal disease seriously — not seeking timely dental treatment. However, untreated gum disease can cause the gum pocket to deepen. This creates a perfect environment in your mouth for bacteria to fester. The resultant infection can gradually travel to your bloodstream, and then reach other areas of your body. This proves the high importance of having regular periodontal maintenance for controlling the spread of the infection and maintaining a better overall health

Sue Vetter’s Periodontal Dentistry in Seattle

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, we at Sue Vetter can determine it with a thorough check-up and provide follow-up treatment and preventative care. If you wish to learn more about the disease and maintenance, call or visit us today.

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