Gum disease can damage the tissues that support teeth, and it has been linked with other health conditions, though a link does not prove that one condition causes another. A deep cleaning, often called scaling and root planing, may be considered when a dental evaluation finds gum disease beneath the gumline. The right next step is to ask a dentist what the examination shows, why a particular treatment is being considered, and what its limits are.
How gum disease relates to overall health
Gum disease begins with inflammation of the gums and can progress to affect the supporting tissues around teeth. The condition may develop without obvious discomfort, so symptoms alone do not establish whether it is present or how far it has progressed.
Research has found associations between periodontal disease and some broader health conditions. Shared factors and complex relationships can make cause and effect difficult to establish. Treating gum disease is important for oral health, but it should not be presented as a way to prevent or cure another medical condition. Continue care with a physician for general health concerns.
What a deep cleaning is intended to do
A deep cleaning generally means scaling and root planing: removing plaque and hardened deposits from tooth surfaces below the gumline, then smoothing root surfaces. A dentist may consider it when examination findings indicate periodontal disease. It is different from a routine cleaning, which generally focuses on deposits above the gumline and routine preventive care.
The recommendation depends on the individual evaluation. Ask what findings support the diagnosis, what the proposed cleaning would address, and whether other care or follow-up is part of the plan. Treatment can address deposits and inflammation around the teeth, but it cannot guarantee a particular result or resolve unrelated health conditions.
Evergreen Dental has information about diagnosing periodontal disease and periodontal disease treatment. These resources can help you prepare questions for a conversation with a dental professional.
Questions to ask at a dental visit
- What findings indicate gum disease, and how does the evaluation determine its extent?
- Why is a deep cleaning being recommended rather than routine cleaning?
- What should I understand about the purpose, limitations, and follow-up for the proposed care?
- How should I coordinate dental care with my physician if I have a health condition or questions about how oral health relates to it?
For a next step, review the Evergreen Dental website and the practice’s Google Business Profile for information about the practice in Auburn, Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does gum disease cause other health problems?
Gum disease has been associated with some broader health conditions, but an association does not establish that gum disease causes them. Treating gum disease should not be presented as a way to prevent or cure another medical condition.
What is a deep cleaning for gum disease?
A deep cleaning generally refers to scaling and root planing, which removes plaque and hardened deposits below the gumline and smooths root surfaces. A dentist may consider it when an evaluation indicates periodontal disease.
How can I find out whether I need a deep cleaning?
A dental evaluation is needed to determine whether periodontal disease is present and whether a deep cleaning is appropriate. Ask what findings support the diagnosis and why the proposed care is recommended.
Where can I read about Evergreen Dental’s periodontal care?
Evergreen Dental provides information about diagnosing periodontal disease and periodontal disease treatment on its website. The practice is located at 1383 Atlanta Hwy., Auburn, GA 30011.
Business features on this publication may be part of marketing services. A business reference does not mean the article is a personal visit, an independent review, or written or reviewed by the featured clinician.