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Treatment
Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and
severity of the disease. Your dentist and dental hygienist
will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the
appropriate treatment.
Periodontal disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or
space) between the tooth and gums gets filled with bacteria,
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 eventually, the bone
that supports the teeth!
If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis,
and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings
will be recommended. You will also be given instructions on
improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular
dental cleanings.
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a
special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root
planning (deep cleaning) will be recommended. It is usually
done one quadrant 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 (planning).
This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to
shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an
electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control
infection and healing.
If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planning,
periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths,
making teeth easier to clean. Your dentist may also
recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the
gums and supporting bone).
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