Periodontal cleaning, also known as deep cleaning or scaling and root planing, is a specialized dental procedure designed to treat gum disease and maintain long-term oral health. In Oceanside, advanced periodontal cleaning services are available to help patients combat periodontal disease, restore gum health, and prevent serious dental complications. Here’s everything you need to know about periodontal cleaning in Oceanside, its benefits, and why it’s crucial for maintaining a healthy smile.

What is Periodontal Cleaning?

Unlike regular dental cleanings that focus on removing plaque and tartar from the visible surfaces of the teeth, periodontal cleaning goes deeper, targeting the bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup beneath the gum line. This procedure is recommended for patients showing signs of gum disease, such as:
Gum inflammation (red, swollen, or bleeding gums)
Deep periodontal pockets (spaces between the gums and teeth)
Receding gums exposing tooth roots
Bone loss around the teeth

By eliminating the bacterial infection and smoothing tooth roots, periodontal cleaning halts disease progression, allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.

Why Periodontal Cleaning is Essential for Gum Health

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It occurs when plaque accumulates on the teeth and hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation, infection, and gum recession. If left untreated, periodontal disease can result in bone loss, loosening of the teeth, and an increased risk of systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions.

Periodontal cleaning in Oceanside plays a critical role in:
Preventing disease progression by eliminating harmful bacteria
Reducing gum inflammation and tenderness
Protecting against bone and tooth loss
Improving overall oral hygiene for long-term gum health
Lowering the risk of systemic health problems linked to gum disease

What Happens During Periodontal Cleaning?

Periodontal cleaning consists of two key steps:

Scaling:

• Specialized instruments remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line.
  
• Both ultrasonic scalers and manual tools are used to break down and eliminate hardened deposits from deep gum pockets.
  

Root Planing:

• The root surfaces of the teeth are smoothed to remove bacterial toxins.
  
• Smoothing the roots helps the gums reattach to the teeth, reducing pocket depth and preventing bacteria from accumulating again.
  

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Depending on the severity of gum disease, periodontal cleaning may be completed in one visit or multiple sessions.

Post-Treatment Care & Maintenance

To maintain the results of periodontal cleaning and prevent the return of gum disease, patients should follow a strict oral hygiene routine:

Brush twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and below the gum line
Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria and reduce gum inflammation
Attend regular dental cleanings & checkups for early detection of gum disease
Avoid smoking and excessive sugar intake, as both contribute to gum disease

For patients with advanced periodontal disease, dentists may recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3-4 months instead of the standard six-month cleanings.

Reclaim Your Gum Health with Periodontal Cleaning in Oceanside

A healthy smile starts with healthy gums. If you’re experiencing gum sensitivity, bleeding, or persistent bad breath, periodontal cleaning can help restore your oral health and prevent further complications.

Schedule Your Periodontal Cleaning with Dr. William J. Cho, DDS, MS
Call (760) 720-7372 Today for an Appointment!