If caught early on, gum disease can be treated with a professional cleaning. A more severe form of gum disease, called periodontitis requires scaling and root planing. Scaling will remove the plaque and tartar, while root planing smooths the exposed roots’ surfaces.
There are a few symptoms that indicate you may have gum disease. They include:
Swollen gums
Bleeding gums
Toothaches
Receding gums
Pain while brushing, flossing, or eating
Consistent bad breath
Following your professional cleaning, you’ll want to be sure to follow a regular oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals will help keep your teeth and gums in the best of health.