A cleaning that treats what is under the gums.
When gums have started to pull away from the teeth, a regular cleaning cannot reach the problem. A deep cleaning removes the bacteria and tartar from the root surfaces below the gumline so your gums can heal and reattach. Done comfortably with numbing by Frank.
Four signs you may need one.
Frank measures the space between your gums and teeth at every visit. Pockets deeper than 4 mm, or any bone loss on your X-rays, mean the infection has moved below the gumline.
Two visits, numbed. Then a recheck.
We usually clean one side of the mouth per visit so you are only numb on one side at a time. Netflix on, blanket if you want one.
Measure and numb
Frank measures each pocket and shows you the map. The side being treated is numbed so you feel nothing.
Clean below the gumline
Bacteria and tartar are removed from the root surfaces with fine instruments and an ultrasonic scaler, then the roots are smoothed so gums can reattach.
Other side, then recheck
The second side about a week later. Six weeks after that we measure again and expect shallower, healthier pockets.
Keeping it from coming back.
Gums that have had pockets refill with bacteria faster than healthy gums do. Two things keep them healthy: a solid routine at home, and periodontal maintenance cleanings every three to four months with Frank.
- Maintenance every 3 to 4 months. Shorter, targeted cleanings with Frank that keep bacteria from rebuilding in the pockets.
- Floss or a water flosser daily. Whichever you will actually use. Frank will show you the technique for deeper pockets.
- A soft brush angled at the gumline. Twice a day, gently. Electric brushes help most people here.
- Tell us about changes. New bleeding, tenderness or a bad taste between visits means we look sooner.
