At Sally Powell, DDS, we are dedicated to protecting your oral and overall health through comprehensive periodontal therapy. Periodontal disease — also known as gum disease — is a common condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and has even been linked to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Our team in Columbia provides personalized periodontal care to stop the progression of gum disease, restore gum health, and prevent future damage. We proudly serve patients in Columbia and surrounding Missouri, including Hallsville, Ashland, Boonville, Rocheport, and Fayette. Call 573-474-8566 today to schedule your deep cleaning with Dr. Powell!
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease starts with the accumulation of plaque and tartar on your teeth, which causes inflammation of the gums. If not addressed in its early stages (gingivitis), the condition can progress to more severe stages, resulting in gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Periodontal deep cleanings are designed to halt the progression of gum disease and prevent these serious complications.
What is a Periodontal Deep Cleaning?
A periodontal deep cleaning is a specialized procedure that goes beyond a routine dental cleaning. It involves two critical steps: scaling and root planing.
- Scaling: This process involves removing plaque and tartar from both above & below the gumline; reaching deep into the pockets in teeth where bacteria hide.
- Root Planing: After scaling, we smooth the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach, reducing the depth of the periodontal pockets & promoting healing.
- Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings: Ongoing cleanings every 3-4 months to keep gum disease under control.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Localized delivery of medication to reduce bacterial infection.
- Surgical Options (if needed): In severe cases, flap surgery or grafting may be required to repair damaged tissues.
Benefits of Periodontal Deep Cleanings
- Stops the Progression of Gum Disease: Removing the plaque and tartar that lead to gum disease helps prevent further damage to the gums and supporting bone.
- Prevents Tooth Loss: By treating gum disease early, deep cleanings can prevent the need for tooth extractions and maintain the integrity of your smile.
- Improves Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath is often a sign of gum disease. Deep cleanings can help resolve this issue by eliminating the underlying infection.
- Boosts Overall Health: Gum disease has been linked systemic health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Treating gum disease can improve your overall health and well-being.
What to Expect During Your Periodontal Deep Cleaning
At Saly Powell, DDS, we are committed to ensuring your comfort throughout the entire procedure. Here’s what you can expect during your periodontal deep cleaning:
- Comprehensive Exam & Diagnosis: We evaluate your gum health using x-rays and periodontal charting ot assess pocket depths.
- Numbing for Comfort: Local anesthesia may be used to numb the affected areas, ensuring a pain-free experience during the cleaning.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Using specialized tools, we will carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooth out the tooth roots.
- Post-Treatment Care: After your deep cleaning, we will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your gums and teeth at home, and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and progress.
- Follow-Up & Maintenance: You’ll be placed on a periodontal maintenance program, typically every 3-4 months.
- Advanced Treatment (if needed): For severe cases, surgical intervention may be recommended to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue.
Signs You May Need a Periodontal Deep Cleaning
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms,
It may be time ot consider a periodontal deep cleaning:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
- Gum recession (pulling away from the teeth).
- Loose teeth or noticeable gaps forming between your teeth and gums.
- Swollen, red or tender gums.
It’s important to address these symptoms early to prevent further damage and restore your oral health.
FAQs About Periodontal Therapy
Q: How do I know if I need a deep cleaning?
You may need a deep cleaning if you have gum pockets deeper than 4mm, bleeding or
swollen gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession. Dr. Powell will measure
pocket depths and assess your gum health during examination.
Q: Will the deep cleaning procedure be painful?
We use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you should feel minimal discomfort
during the procedure. Some patients experience mild soreness for a few days
afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Q: How long does a periodontal deep cleaning take?
A full-mouth deep cleaning typically requires 2 appointments, with each session
lasting 45-90 minutes. We usually treat one quadrant at a time for thorough cleaning
and comfort.
Q: What should I expect after a deep cleaning?
It’s normal to experience gum tenderness, slight bleeding when brushing, and tooth
sensitivity for a few days. We’ll provide aftercare instructions, and most patients see
significant improvement within a few weeks.
Q: How often will I need deep cleanings?
Most patients only need an initial series of deep cleanings. However, you’ll need more
frequent maintenance cleanings (every 3-4 months) to prevent gum disease from
returning.
Q: Will my dental insurance cover periodontal deep cleans?
Most insurance plans provide full or partial coverage for periodontal procedures,
especially when they are medically necessary. We’ll help you verify your benefits
before starting treatment.
Q: What happens if I don’t get treated for gum disease?
If you have early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) it is reversible with good hygiene and
professional care. More advanced periodontal disease can be managed-but not fully reversed.
Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation Today
Your gum health is the foundation of your smile. At Sally Powell, DDS, we’re here to help you take control of periodontal disease with expert care and personalized treatment.
Call 573-474-8566 today to schedule your consultation with our compassionate team in Columbia, MO!