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
planing (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 (planing). 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 planing,
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).
