Periodontitis

• Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis, gum disease, is not treated and allowed to continue. Once this happens, the gums pull from the teeth and form pockets. Those pockets are what the dental hygienist, or dentist, cleans to treat the periodontitis. If those deep pockets are not cleaned, they can become infected. This weakens the bone and can cause the teeth to come loose. Deep pockets measure approximately 5 mm to 6 mm deep.
  
  

Scaling and Root Planing

• Once the dentist determines that you have gum disease, he will start the deep pocket cleaning in quadrants. The dental professional separates the mouth into four quadrants. Usually one or two quadrants are done at a time. The periodontist begins scaling the teeth by removing tarter from the teeth -- both above and below the gumline. Root planing is the second part of deep pocket cleaning. It removes bacteria that cause the gum disease to get worse. Once each quadrant is deep cleaned, you then move onto maintenance cleaning.
  
  

Maintenance

• The usual teeth cleaning schedule for those without periodontal issues is once every six months. Those who get deep pocket cleaning must get it done approximately every four months. The maintenance appointment involves measuring those deep pockets and cleaning above the gumline. Those with extra deep pockets must go back in for additional cleaning below the gumline. This can be both scaling and root planing, depending on the condition.
  
  

Home Care

• Taking care of your teeth after deep pocket cleaning is crucial. After each appointment, that section of gums will heal, and any swelling will go down. The dentist may prescribe antibiotics and even pain medication. That is not necessary for everyone. For the next two days, avoid hard or spicy foods. Eschew all tobacco and alcohol for at least three days. Be careful when brushing and flossing for the first few days after. Brush the teeth gingerly, and do not floss until at least one day after treatment.