Deep Cleaning

Service Description

Gum Disease in general is a spectrum of less than healthy gums and declining oral health. The earliest from of gum disease is called gingivitis and presents with reddened and irritated gums that bleed with brushing or flossing. This is caused by plaque build-up on the teeth and without regular cleaning, the plaque builds up at the gum line resulting in inflammation. Periodontitis (per-e-o-don-TIE-tis) is a more severe stage of gum disease that develops when gingivitis is not properly treated. This can have dire consequences including receding gums, bone demineralization and osteomyelitis, destruction of connective tissue and loss of the affected teeth. Gingivitis is curable, but the damage caused by periodontitis is usually irreversible. Stages of Gum Disease: Stage 1 (Gingivitis) : Redness, irritated and swollen gums, bleeding with brushing or flossing Stage 2 (Early periodontitis) Mild bone loss, imperceptibly movable tooth. Stage 3 (Moderate periodontitis) Moderate bone loss, receding gums, patient notices loose teeth. Stage 4 (Severe periodontitis) Teeth are obviously loose, there is pain with biting or chewing. Cariosity is dental decay. When cariosity becomes advanced enough to form a depression in the surface of the tooth and destruction of the enamel and underlying dentin, this is called cavitation and is often referred to as dental caries or dental cavities. Early identification can occur by scheduling regular cleanings. When early, we can provide a concentrated fluoride treatment to the affected site and this can halt and sometimes reverse progression to a cavity. Once a cavity has formed, it will need to be filled to prevent progression. This will usually take an hour as it will require x-rays, a discussion of options, numbing medicine injection, and then drilling the cavity to healthy dentin and filling. Once complete, you will have some numbness for a couple hours. There are many types of filling material available and each has advantages and disadvantages and differing appearance. Amalgam is the most common filling and has been around for >100 years. Amalgam is strong, and is therefore preferred for molars where high pressure chewing occurs. Your doctor will discuss filling material options with you if you require a filling. The best treatment is prevention and this can be accomplished by brushing twice daily and having regular dental visits for routine cleaning to remove plaque and build-up.

Contact Details

• 5508 Seminary Rd, Alexandria, VA 22311, USA