Tooth and Gum Trouble
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| Bacteria in
your mouth form a sticky film (plaque) on teeth
and gums. If not removed, this film hardens into a crust
(tartar, also called calculus). A
buildup of
plaque and tartar can cause an
infection called
periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can lead to
pain, gum damage, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
Scaling and root planing is a special type of
cleaning done by a dental professional (general
dentist, dental hygienist, or periodontist). This
cleaning removes plaque and tartar. It helps restore the
health of your teeth and gums.
Your Evaluation |
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Healthy Gums -
In a healthy mouth, gums are firm. Firm, healthy gums
protect teeth and bone. |
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| Your dentist
determines how advanced your periodontal disease is and
how much damage has been done. Your gums are looked at
for bleeding and swelling. Your teeth are checked for
looseness and sensitivity. Full mouth x-rays help
show if there is bone loss around your teeth.
 Periodontal
Probing
Periodontal probing helps measure how advanced your
disease is. During probing, a tool (probe)
measures the space (called the pocket) between
each tooth and the surrounding gum. The deeper the
pocket, the more severe the problem. |
Infected
Gums - Infected
gums bleed, swell, and recede (pull away) from teeth.
Teeth may loosen and become sensitive. As the infection
worsens, bone may be lost and teeth may fall out.
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The Procedure |
| Scaling and root
planing removes plaque and tartar from below your gum
line. This controls the growth of harmful bacteria.
It also helps gums reattach firmly to the teeth. Because
this procedure goes deeper than a regular cleaning, your
mouth may be numbed. The cleaning may take two to four
or more visits to complete. |
Root Planing
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Scaling
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 Root
planing involves scraping and
smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth. Gum tissue
can more firmly reattach to roots that are clean and
smooth. |
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 Scaling
is a type of cleaning. It removes plaque and tartar
from around and below the gum line. |
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After Your Procedure |
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Your mouth may feel sore and tender after
treatment. Keep brushing and flossing your teeth
after each meal. Rinse with warm saltwater every few
hours. Pain medication may be suggested if you need it. |
Brush and Floss Right!
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Brushing and flossing help keep your
teeth and gums healthy. They stop plaque and tartar from
building up on your teeth. Brush after every meal.
Floss at least once a day. And be sure to brush and
floss right. The tips below tell you how. |
 Brushing
- Use a soft toothbrush and
fluoride toothpaste.
- Hold the brush at a 45°
angle to your gum line. This lets the bristles reach
under the gums. Gently brush the outer and inner
surfaces of your teeth.
- Use the top bristles to clean the
inside of the upper and lower front teeth.
- Scrub the chewing surfaces.
- Brush your tongue to clear away
food and bacteria. Then rinse well.
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Flossing
- Ask your dentist to recommend the
type of dental floss that's best for you.
- Wrap 18 inches of floss around
your middle fingers. Hold it tight between your
thumb and index finger.
- Ease the floss between your
teeth. Rub up and down against the sides of each
tooth.
- Be sure to floss below your gum
line where plaque tends to collect.
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Remember |
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Periodontal disease can be an
ongoing problem. Keep your gums and teeth healthy:
brush, floss, and visit your dentist for regular exams
and cleanings. Eat a healthy diet. If you smoke or chew
tobacco, quit. And call your dentist if you
notice any tooth or gum problems. |
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Contact Paradise Dental and
schedule an appointment to have your teeth cleaned.
Take good care of your teeth and gums, and your mouth
will stay healthy. |
