Deep cleaning is a special cleaning called scaling and root planing. The teeth and gums are numbed and a small scaler or ultrasonic cleaner is used to carefully remove plaque and tartar under the gum tissue where there is greater than 3mm of periodontal pocketing.

Gum disease, clinically known as periodontitis, is a term used to describe various diseases affecting the gums and bone around the teeth. In its early stages, it is called gingivitis. It is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar around the teeth. Early detection and treatment is your best defense. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.

• Inconsistent oral hygiene
• Insufficiently contoured fillings or crowns
• Poor nutrition
• Smoking and/or chewing tobacco
• Diabetes
• Certain medications including steroids, oral contraceptives, blood pressure medication
• Genetics

If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone. Between 9% and 15% of Americans state they avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear. We take your fear seriously, and help you cope by discussing your fears as you feel necessary. Once we know what your fears are, we’ll be better able to work with you to determine the best ways to make you less anxious and more comfortable. We pride ourselves on compassionate, gentle dental care.

1. Brush and floss more often Plaque, the sticky buildup on your teeth, collects bacteria that cause bad breath. Trapped food also adds to the problem. Brush your teeth at least two times each day and floss at least once. If you are concerned about your breath, do both a little more often. Do not overdo it, however, because if you brush too hard, you can wear down your teeth, making them vulnerable to decay.
2. Rinse out your mouth Besides freshening your breath, mouthwash adds extra protection by getting rid of bacteria. A fresh, minty taste can make you feel good, but be sure the mouthwash you choose kills the germs that cause bad breath. Do not just cover up the smell. Rinse daily with a good mouthwash and stop bad breath at its source.
3. Scrape your tongue. The coating that normally forms on your tongue can be a host for smelly bacteria. To get rid of them, gently brush your tongue with your toothbrush. If your brush is too big to comfortably reach the back of your tongue, try a scraper. They’re designed specifically to apply even pressure across the surface of the tongue area. This removes bacteria, food debris, and dead cells that brushing teeth alone cannot cover.
4. Avoid foods that sour your breath. Onions and garlic are big offenders and brushing after you eat them does not help. The substances that cause their bad smells make their way into your bloodstream and travel to your lungs, where you exhale them. The best way to stop the problem? Don’t eat them, or at least avoid them before you go to work or see friends.
5. Reflux, GERD, Heartburn Gastro-intestinal issues such as Reflux, GERD, or heartburn can also contribute to bad breath. Check with your physician if you’re concerned about it. Often, the acid that regurgitates back into your throat and mouth can contribute to abnormal tooth wear and break-down as well. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may have with us at your next visit.

Your affected area will feel numb for approximately 1-3 hours after treatment, and as the numbing effect wears off, the affected tissue may feel tingly and/or itchy. It is always important to protect the treated area so that you do not accidentally bite or otherwise traumatize the soft tissues of your lips, cheeks, and tongue while still numb. We often recommend eating only soft foods while you still feel numb and avoiding any hot beverages. Sometimes, using a straw to drink is easier while you are still numb. If you do accidentally bite your tissue, it may become ulcerated and the resulting ulcer may take 7-10 days to heal. As always, please call our office with any special concerns or questions you may have regarding your treatment.

Our new office is fully handicap accessible!