What am I doing wrong?

[rb224315]

I've had gum problems for many years (I'm 43). After trying various things (Reach flosser, Water Pik, etc.) I finally decided to bite the bullet and learn to like flossing the old fashioned way. I have religiously flossed every night before bedtime since my last cleaning. At that time the hygienist wanted to see me in 4 months, which was this week. After doing everything as well as I know how (brushing and flossing every night, and sometimes at other times of day) they tell me that my gums look like they usually do, which isn't very good. The lower molars are where the problem is worst. The other areas aren't so bad, apparently.

At this point I have no idea what to do. They recommended planing and scaling, and I assume they're probably right. Unfortunately, I'm not confident that I won't end up in the same situation down the road.

I use a traditional manual toothbrush and regular waxed floss. Is there something I need to change or add to my routine to completely clean every tooth every day? I'm a little perplexed and appreciate any insight you can give.

 

[comfortdentist]

Root planning followed by q3 month scaling as a minimium.

 

[carole]

You could also get an electric toothbrush they are really good and they get to the places we can't always manage. You just hold the brush at a 45% angle and the brush does the rest, you still do front, back and the top of the teeth. I have an oral b one that is re-chargeable, I have had it for a few years after a dentist advised me to get one because I was having trouble cleaning my back teeth with a normal brush. The heads are smaller too so are more manageable to use for that reason also.

 

[kittykat]

For deep cleaning, they go under the gums to get gunk off your teeth that you can't get off by brushing -- no matter how hard you try! It's important to let them do this because it might get worse.

 

[rob wain]

The teeth need to be cleaned professionally first (thats the rootplaning etc) then your cleaning will be more effective.
try getting some plaque disclosing tablets - using them will show you how effective your cleaning is and help you improve

 

[rb224315]

Thanks for your suggestions. My concern is that after a deep cleaning I will eventually have the same problem again. I want to do whatever I can to prevent the buildup from recurring. Is it safe to say that getting an electric toothbrush with a small head combined with flossing is the only way to get to those hard to reach areas, or is there something else I should add to my regular routine?

 

[rob wain]

Part of the deep cleaning treatment will include a personalised cleaning regime and instructions in best techniques.