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Periodontal Care Your oral health is more important than you might think; it serves as a window to your overall well-being. Taking proper care of your teeth not only protects your smile but also contributes to your body's overall health. Regular dental cleanings are essential, but they differ from periodontal maintenance. At Infinity Dental Care, our goal is to provide effective gum disease treatment to help maintain your healthy smile.What is a Regular Dental Cleaning?A regular dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventative procedure designed to maintain oral health and prevent serious dental issues. It is recommended that you undergo one or two of these cleanings each year. During a regular cleaning, your dentist will first examine your mouth for early signs of conditions such as cavities, abscesses, and even oral cancer. Once the dentist has completed the evaluation, a dental hygienist will perform a thorough cleaning. Using specialized tools, they will carefully remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surface of your teeth without causing any damage. Light stains can also be removed during this process. Afterward, your teeth will be polished to eliminate any remaining residue and brighten your smile. Routine cleanings help prevent plaque buildup and keep your teeth in optimal condition between visits. What is Scaling and Root Planing?Scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical treatment used to combat the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) and more advanced periodontal disease. This procedure involves carefully removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line (scaling), and then smoothing out the root surfaces (root planing) to help the gums reattach to the teeth. It’s often recommended when pockets have formed between the gums and teeth, as it can reduce inflammation, stop the progression of gum disease, and support overall oral health. What is Periodontal Maintenance?Periodontal maintenance, often referred to as deep cleaning, is similar to a regular cleaning but is more intensive and performed more frequently. While regular cleanings are preventive, periodontal maintenance is designed to treat existing gum disease and other oral health issues. If you require periodontal maintenance, our dentist will likely recommend visits every three to four months to manage your condition. During periodontal maintenance, a hygienist will remove tartar, including buildup between the teeth and below the gum line. This process, known as scaling and root planing, helps prevent gum disease from worsening. Additionally, your gum pockets will be assessed for signs of infection or inflammation. If necessary, the hygienist may flush these pockets with an antiseptic solution to disinfect the area and prevent the spread of infection. Maintaining a Healthy MouthUnderstanding the difference between regular dental cleanings and periodontal maintenance is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Scheduling routine dental visits allows the dentist to determine the appropriate frequency for your cleanings based on your individual needs. If we recommend periodontal maintenance, it is important to follow through with the treatment. Periodontal disease can be irreversible in some cases, so early intervention is key to preserving your dental health. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to complications such as gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Seeking timely treatment ensures that you remain as healthy and pain-free as possible. Whether you need a standard dental cleaning or ongoing periodontal maintenance, our team at Infinity Dental Care is here to help. Call us at (971) 451-3800 to schedule your next appointment. |
 Hours Mon Tues Weds Thur Fri 8:30am to 5pm 8am to 5pm 8am to 5pm 8am to 5pm Closed |
