Treatment

The typd of periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and decide the appropriate treatment.

As the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums gets filled with bacteria periodontal disease progresses creating, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues. When these irritants remain in the pocket space, they can cause damage to the gums and over time, the bone that supports the teeth!

One to two regular cleanings will be recommended, if the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene routines and having regular dental cleanings.

If the disease has moved to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be needed. It is usually done one area of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planing). This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be needed to help control infection and healing.

Periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing. Your dentist may also recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).