Maintaining healthy gums is essential to your overall oral health, and professional dental cleanings play a critical role in preventing gum disease. While brushing and flossing at home are important daily habits, routine visits to our dentist in Lebanon, IN, are necessary to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to gum issues over time.
Dr. Lee offers teeth cleanings and other dental services to help you maintain strong, healthy gums.
Here’s what you need to know.
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.
Why Routine Cleanings Are Important
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 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 Dr. Lee and maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule, you can prevent the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
Why Dental Exams Are Also Crucial
In addition to the cleaning itself, routine dental visits also include comprehensive exams. These exams allow Dr. Lee 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 Your Next Teeth Cleaning
are one of the most effective ways to prevent gum disease and maintain healthy gums. By removing harmful plaque and tartar, addressing early signs of gingivitis, and preventing the progression to periodontitis, professional cleanings keep your smile healthy.
Schedule your next cleaning with our dentist in Lebanon, IN, to ensure your gums stay in top condition. Call Dwight B. Lee Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (765) 482-2400 or fill out our online contact form to get started.