Understanding Periodontal Disease and the Importance of Deep Cleaning

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease begins with inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and can advance to a more serious condition affecting the bone and tissues that support your teeth. When not treated early, it can lead to tooth mobility, gum recession, and even tooth loss.

 

Stages of Gum Disease

1. Gingivitis

   • Caused by plaque buildup along the gumline

   • Symptoms: redness, mild bleeding, and puffiness

   • Reversible with professional cleanings and good home care

2. Periodontitis

   • Plaque hardens into tartar, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth

   • Pockets form beneath the gums and harbor bacteria

   • Bone loss begins

   • Requires deep cleaning treatment

3. Advanced Periodontitis

   • Significant bone loss and deep pockets

   • Teeth may become loose or painful

   • May require additional periodontal therapy or extraction

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What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Several factors contribute to the development of gum disease:

• Poor oral hygiene leading to plaque and tartar buildup

• Smoking or vaping, which impairs healing

• Genetics, making some individuals more prone to gum problems

• Chronic conditions like diabetes

• Misaligned teeth that are harder to clean

• Hormonal changes, including pregnancy or menopause

Because gum disease often progresses quietly, regular dental checkups are key to catching it early.

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What is a Deep Cleaning?

A deep cleaning—also known as scaling and root planing—is a specialized periodontal treatment that removes bacteria and tartar from below the gumline. Unlike a routine cleaning, which focuses on the surfaces of the teeth, a deep cleaning targets the root surfaces and gum pockets.

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How Deep Cleaning Works

1. Scaling

   • Removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gums and around the roots

2. Root Planing

   • Smooths the root surfaces to allow the gums to reattach

   • Helps prevent bacteria from reaccumulating

This procedure may be completed in one or two appointments depending on the severity of the disease.

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What to Expect After a Deep Cleaning 

Healing from a deep cleaning is usually straightforward, but some temporary symptoms are normal.

Common Post-Treatment Experiences

• Mild tenderness or gum soreness for a few days

• Slight sensitivity to hot or cold

• Temporary bleeding during brushing

• Improved gum tightness as inflammation decreases

Post-Op Instruction

• Brush and floss gently, but continue your normal routine to keep the area clean

• Rinse with warm salt water to soothe the gums (starting 24 hours after treatment)

• Avoid smoking or vaping, as these delay healing

• Choose soft foods for the first day if your gums feel tender

• Take any prescribed medications exactly as directed

A follow-up visit is often recommended to check healing and measure gum pockets again.

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Protecting Your Gum Health Moving Forward

Deep cleanings are an important part of treating periodontal disease, but ongoing care is essential. Many patients benefit from periodontal maintenance appointments every 3–4 months to keep gum disease from returning.

Healthy gums support strong teeth, a balanced bite, and a confident smile. With consistent care from Dr. Masso and good home hygiene habits, patients can successfully manage periodontal disease and maintain long-term oral health.