Home > General Dentistry > Periodontal Cleaning Periodontal Cleaning Protecting Your Gums and Surrounding Tooth Structure Periodontal cleaning, also known as deep teeth cleaning or periodontal maintenance therapy, is an ongoing treatment for patients diagnosed with periodontal disease. A non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment carefully cleaned by an experienced hygienist. Periodontal maintenance is required to remove plaque and calculus above and below your gum line. Additionally, clean deep periodontal pockets and smooth the tooth to remove harmful toxins. Periodontal Maintenance Therapy Periodontal Maintenance Prevents Disease from Worsening Periodontal Maintenance Therapy Gingivitis Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. Often, gingivitis is the result of inadequate oral hygiene. When plaque is allowed to remain on teeth, bacteria within it begins to irritate your gums. As a result, your gums will become red, swollen, and can bleed easily. Additionally, sensitivity and tenderness of the gum tissue, and slight bleeding can occur. You may notice your toothbrush or floss having a slight pinkish tone to them after use. Since gingivitis rarely causes pain, most patients do not even know when they have it. Eventually, the bacteria will work its way above your gum line. At this point, it is more critical than ever to contact your Vancouver, WA periodontist. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care. However, if left untreated Gingivitis will progress, and further complications can arise. Overview of Gingivitis How Gingivitis Can Progress to Gum Disease Gingivitis Overview Gum Disease Causes Tooth Loss Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissue and gum structure that hold your teeth in place. The gum tissue and bone structure are attacked by the bacteria, which weakens your tooth structure. Consequently, you are at risk for tooth loss. Before replacing a tooth that is lost, gum disease must be treated. Without regular dental cleanings, harmful bacteria and hard deposits called calculus build up on your teeth above and below your gums. Additionally, the bacteria releases harmful toxins that can lead to gingivitis, causing inflamed and bleeding gums. There are two types of gum disease: Gingivitis Periodontitis Gum Disease Symptoms Initially, symptoms of gum disease may not appear. Often, the symptoms of gum disease are silent, especially in the early stages, known as gingivitis. Typically, symptoms of gum disease will begin with inflammation of the gums. Other symptoms that you may experience include: Red or purple colored gums Swollen gums Gums that are bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth Loose or separating teeth Mouth sores A change in your bite Periodontitis is Severe Gum Disease Periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease. Previously, gingivitis existed in your mouth and was left untreated. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque grow below your gum line. With time, the bacteria will deteriorate your bone that holds your teeth. Fortunately, periodontitis is a treatable condition. Similar to other forms of periodontal disease, your deep teeth cleanings will occur every three to four months. Also, your dentist will complete a comprehensive evaluation to ensure your overall health is not affected. Overview of Periodontitis The Symptoms And Health Consequences of Untreated Gum Infection Periodontitis Overview Scaling and Root Planing Reverse Gum Disease Scaling & Root Planing Love Your Gums Please fill out the form below, and one of our patient coordinators will contact you soon. Alternatively, you may call us at 360-892-2994. Send Message Cascade Dental 16703 SE McGillivray Blvd, Ste 100 Vancouver, WA 98683 (360) 892-2994 ABOUT About Us Dr. Andy Himsworth Dr. Daniel Wilson Dr. Holly Stagg Dr. Rick Furman Payment Options Patient Information FAQs Dental Blog Contact Us GENERAL DENTISTRY General Dentistry Periodontal Therapy Pediatric Dentistry TMJ Disorder Treatment Emergency Dental Care COSMETIC DENTISTRY Cosmetic Dentistry Porcelain Veneers Teeth Whitening Dental Technology Invisalign RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY Restorative Dentistry Dental Implants Same-Day Crowns Dentures Root Canal ©2020 Cascade Dental | All Rights Reserved Designed by Digital Krewe