Stop Gum Disease with Professional Teeth Cleanings
Worried about red, sore gums that bleed when you floss? Schedule professional teeth cleanings with our dentists in Greater Grand Rapids, MI. Our team at 44 West Dental Professionals would be more than happy to evaluate your teeth and gums—recommending the best course of treatment for your oral health. They’ll also have the opportunity to remove stubborn plaque and tartar from your smile.
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In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about dental cleanings and their role in preventing gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins with inflammation of the gums due to the presence of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. When plaque isn’t thoroughly removed, it hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss and other health complications. That’s why it’s important to seek gum disease treatment as soon as possible.
The Importance of Routine Teeth Cleanings
Dental cleanings are crucial in preventing gum disease because they target plaque and tartar in areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss alone. During a cleaning, your dental hygienist will use specialized tools to carefully remove plaque and tartar from around your teeth and gums, significantly reducing your risk of developing gum disease.
For individuals with a higher risk of gum disease—such as smokers, diabetics, or those with a family history of periodontal issues—regular cleanings may be needed more frequently to maintain gum health.
How Dental Cleanings Prevent Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. At this point, the damage is reversible with proper care. Routine dental cleanings are essential in treating and preventing gingivitis by thoroughly removing the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that cause gum irritation.
When plaque is left untreated, it triggers an immune response that leads to inflammation, but cleanings help interrupt this process, allowing your gums to heal.
Manage Periodontitis with Deep Cleanings
If gum disease progresses to periodontitis, more intensive treatments, such as deep cleanings (also called scaling and root planing), may be required. A deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the roots of the teeth, which helps gums reattach to the teeth and prevents further infection.
By regularly visiting our dentists and maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule, you can prevent the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
Why Dental Exams Are Also Key
In addition to the cleaning itself, routine dental visits also include comprehensive exams. These exams allow our dentists to spot and other oral health issues before they become serious. Early detection is key in preventing the progression of gum disease, and dental exams provide an extra layer of protection for your gums and teeth.
Schedule a Teeth Cleaning Appointment
Has it been a while since your last teeth cleaning? If so, there’s never been a better time to schedule an appointment with 44 West Dental Professionals. Our dentists in Greater Grand Rapids, MI, are accepting new patients and would be more than happy to help safeguard your smile for years to come. To get started, call (616) 530-2200 or fill out our online contact form.