During your cleaning, we will remove plaque and tartar deposits that have built up on your teeth over time. Your hygienist will also polish your teeth to make them look good and smooth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth when bacteria in the mouth break down sugars and starches from foods. It causes the gums to become inflamed, red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. If left untreated, the plaque will harden into calculus or tartar. Only professional dental cleanings can remove tartar. 

If you have signs of gingivitis, our dentist at Dental Specialists & Implant Center at The Woodlands, may recommend a deep professional cleaning to remove the harmful bacteria beneath the gum line. Once the infection is gone, you’ll need to maintain regular oral hygiene to prevent the return of gingivitis. 

The Causes of Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is caused when the mouth’s bacteria are allowed to build up along the gum line, creating plaque and tartar. If left untreated, gum disease can cause severe damage to the gums, teeth, and bone structure. 

The Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Patients who suspect they have periodontal issues should visit their dentist as soon as possible, as symptoms will only worsen without treatment. Symptoms include:

• Red and swollen gums.
• Bleeding while brushing or flossing.
• Chronic bad breath.
• Loose teeth.
• A receding gum line.

How Do You Treat Periodontal Disease?

When the gums are healthy, they fit tightly around each tooth. This helps to keep plaque and food out of the space between the teeth and gums, which protects the teeth and helps prevent tooth decay.

When bacteria is left on the teeth, the gums become inflamed. This leads to inflammation of the gum tissues, which is known as gingivitis. The early stages of gum disease can be reversed with a proper oral hygiene regimen that includes regular brushing with a toothbrush and flossing daily. If this treatment plan is not followed, the gum inflammation can worsen and eventually lead to tooth loss.

Gum disease is typically treated with nonsurgical therapy. This usually involves scaling and root planing. This is a deep cleaning that removes buildup from the teeth and the root surfaces. Once these parts of the teeth are cleaned, it is easier to keep the mouth clean and prevent further plaque buildup.

Our dentist can diagnose periodontal disease and recommend a treatment plan based on its severity. Visit Dental Specialists & Implant Center at The Woodlands at 3117 College Park Dr #230, The Woodlands, TX, or call (936) 231-8937 to schedule an appointment.