Dental Cleanings

On your initial examination, gum measurements (probing depths) are completed. These numbers indicate whether your gums are healthy or if gum (periodontal) disease is present. Patients who do not receive proper periodontal gum care are at risk of more serious issues, including tooth loss. Evidence has shown that there may be a connection between periodontal disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes, respiratory disease, chronic kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cognitive impairment, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and Alzheimer's. Risk factors for periodontal disease include smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes, medications, and genetics. Heights Dental Tampa strives for you to not only have a healthy mouth, but also a healthy body!

Healthy Mouth Cleaning

Normal measurements are between 1-3 mm (Healthy). If your gums are healthy, you will have a regular prophylactic cleaning (prophy) with the option to have fluoride. Routine, healthy mouth cleanings should be performed at least once every 6 months to maintain good oral health.

Gingivitis Cleaning

Gingivitis is present if multiple 4mm pockets are present (your gums may be red, puffy, bleed when brushing and flossing, have some plaque and calculus buildup, or you may not have had your cleaning within the ADA recommended time frame of 6 months). If gingivitis is present, gingivitis therapy will be done. This involves placing a topical numbing gel at the gum line and thoroughly cleaning the gum tissues. Home care routines will be reviewed (including using a soft bristle or electric toothbrush and daily flossing) and you will return for your regular cleaning in 6 months.

Periodontal Scaling

If pockets are 5mm or deeper, periodontal disease may be present, especially if you notice moderate to severe gum inflammation and bleeding, bad breath, a significant buildup of plaque and calculus, receding gums, or loose teeth. If periodontitis is present, periodontal scaling would be done. This treatment eradicates the deposits from the root surfaces of the teeth. Depending on the depth of the pocket, Dr. Jainandan will numb the area so that you will feel as comfortable as possible during your cleaning. Adjunctive treatment options may also be discussed such as the placement of the antibiotic ARESTIN® (minocycline HCl) Microspheres, which, when incorporated into a routine oral maintenance program along with scaling and root planing (SRP), can lead to pocket depth reduction. Once this initial scaling is complete, it is imperative that you return every 3-4 months for your maintenance cleanings!