I am very thankful that I have been fortunate enough to find this Dentist Office. The entire staff are very pleasant and genuinely care about a good outcome regardless of your situation. You could not ask for better. Dr. Parker is great…😀 …
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health, but sometimes a standard cleaning isn’t enough. At River Oaks Dental Care, we often recommend deep dental cleanings (also known as scaling and root planing) for patients showing signs of early gum disease. But how do you know if you need this more intensive procedure? Here are the key indicators that might suggest it’s time for a deep cleaning.
Persistent Bad Breath
While occasional bad breath is normal, especially after consuming certain foods, persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing, flossing, or mouthwash could indicate bacterial buildup below the gumline. These bacteria produce sulfur compounds that create an unpleasant odor. A deep cleaning can remove these hidden bacteria that regular brushing can’t reach.
Bleeding Gums
Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? This is often one of the earliest signs of gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed during normal oral hygiene routines. If you notice pink in the sink regularly, it’s a strong indication that bacteria have accumulated and are causing inflammation that may require professional intervention.
Receding Gums
When your gums pull away from your teeth, creating pockets and making teeth appear longer, you’re experiencing gum recession. This creates additional spaces where bacteria can hide and multiply, furthering the progression of gum disease. A deep cleaning can help address the underlying cause of recession and prevent further damage.
Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Healthy gums should be pink and firm. If yours are red, puffy, or tender to the touch, inflammation is present. This inflammatory response occurs when your body is fighting bacterial infection in the gum tissue. Without proper treatment, this condition can worsen and lead to more serious periodontal issues.
Visible Tartar Buildup
Tartar (calculus) is hardened plaque that can’t be removed by brushing alone. If you can see yellowish or brownish deposits along your gumline or between teeth, that’s tartar. These deposits create rough surfaces where more bacteria can accumulate, accelerating gum disease. Only professional dental tools can effectively remove tartar, especially when it extends below the gumline.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
As gum disease progresses, the supporting structures of your teeth, including bone, can become damaged. This may cause teeth to feel loose or shift position. If you’ve noticed changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite, or if individual teeth feel mobile, it could indicate advanced gum disease requiring immediate attention, including deep cleaning.
Deep Pockets
During routine dental exams, we measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums. Healthy gums fit snugly against teeth with pocket depths of one to three millimeters. Measurements of four millimeters or greater indicate periodontal disease and often necessitate a deep cleaning. These deeper pockets trap food particles and bacteria, creating a cycle of infection that’s difficult to break without professional help.
Previous Diagnosis of Gum Disease
If you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis in the past, you may need more frequent deep cleanings to maintain gum health. Gum disease can recur, especially without diligent home care and regular professional maintenance.
Experience Relief with Deep Cleaning at River Oaks Dental Care
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait until your next regular checkup. Early intervention with deep cleaning can prevent gum disease from progressing to more serious stages that may require surgical intervention.
Our experienced hygienists use gentle techniques and local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the deep cleaning process. We’ll also provide personalized guidance for home care to help maintain your results.
Contact our office today at 256-274-8680 to schedule an evaluation. You can also request an appointment online if you prefer. Your gums support more than just your teeth—they’re fundamental to your overall health, and we’re here to help you protect them.