Periodontal Cleaning

Periodontal Cleaning in Snellville

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. At French Smiles, we know that gum disease is one of the most common yet preventable oral health issues. For patients with signs of gum disease, a periodontal cleaning may be recommended to stop the progression of infection, protect your teeth, and restore gum health. At our trusted dental clinic in Snellville, we combine advanced technology with gentle care to provide treatments that make a lasting difference.

What Is a Periodontal Cleaning?

A periodontal cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a specialized dental procedure designed to treat gum disease at its source. Unlike a regular dental cleaning, which removes plaque and tartar above the gumline, a periodontal cleaning goes deeper. During this treatment, your dentist or hygienist carefully removes hardened plaque and bacteria from beneath the gums and smooths the roots of your teeth to help the gums reattach and heal.

This treatment is typically recommended when gum disease has advanced beyond gingivitis and into periodontitis. At this stage, bacteria and plaque buildup cause pockets to form between the gums and teeth, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and even bone loss if left untreated.

Signs You May Need a Periodontal Cleaning

Gum disease can progress silently, so recognizing the early warning signs is key. You may benefit from a periodontal cleaning if you experience:

• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gum recession, making teeth appear longer
• Loose teeth or changes in the way your bite feels

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an exam at our dental clinic in Snellville. Our experienced team will evaluate your gums and determine if periodontal cleaning is the right treatment for you.

The Benefits of Periodontal Cleaning

Undergoing a periodontal cleaning provides more than just symptom relief. This treatment offers long-term health benefits, including:

• Prevents Tooth Loss: By treating infection and reducing gum pockets, periodontal cleaning helps secure your teeth in place.
• Restores Gum Health: Inflammation is reduced, and gums have the chance to reattach to the teeth.
• Improves Breath: Removing bacteria below the gumline eliminates one of the leading causes of persistent bad breath.
• Protects Overall Health: Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions. Treating it supports your total health, not just your smile.

Our general dentist team at French Smiles emphasizes prevention, but when gum disease does develop, we provide comprehensive care to restore your oral health.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Your comfort is always our top priority. Before your periodontal cleaning, a local anesthetic may be applied to keep the area numb and ensure a comfortable experience. The procedure involves two main steps:

1. Scaling: We remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from above and below the gumline.
2. Root Planing: The roots of your teeth are smoothed to discourage future buildup and to help your gums reattach.

Depending on your needs, the treatment may be completed in one or more visits. Afterward, you may notice some temporary sensitivity, but this usually resolves quickly as your gums begin to heal.

How to Maintain Results

After a periodontal cleaning, consistent home care and follow-up visits are essential. Here’s how you can protect your gums long-term:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss carefully around each tooth to remove plaque
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended
• Keep up with maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months, as advised by your dentist

By following these steps, you can support the healing process and reduce the risk of gum disease returning.

FAQs About Periodontal Cleaning

Is a periodontal cleaning painful?

Most patients find the procedure comfortable, especially with the use of a local anesthetic. Any mild sensitivity afterward typically fades within a few days.

How is a periodontal cleaning different from a regular cleaning?

A standard cleaning focuses on removing plaque above the gumline. A periodontal cleaning goes deeper to treat gum disease by addressing bacteria and buildup below the gums.

Will I need more than one periodontal cleaning?

This depends on the severity of your gum disease. Some patients require multiple sessions, while others may only need one treatment followed by regular maintenance cleanings.

Can gum disease come back after treatment?

Yes, gum disease can return if proper oral hygiene and maintenance visits are not followed. That’s why ongoing care and professional monitoring are so important.

Why Choose French Smiles

At French Smiles, our team is dedicated to protecting your gums, teeth, and overall health. With a focus on prevention and education, our general dentist team helps patients understand their risk for gum disease and provides tailored solutions to keep it under control. As a leading dental clinic in Snellville, we offer compassionate, state-of-the-art periodontal care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Protect Your Smile With Periodontal Cleaning

If you’ve noticed signs of gum disease, don’t wait. A periodontal cleaning can stop infection in its tracks and protect your teeth for years to come. Contact French Smiles today to schedule your appointment at the trusted dental clinic in Snellville. Together, we’ll help you achieve healthier gums, stronger teeth, and a brighter smile.