Periodontal Therapy

Avoid Periodontal Disease

Periodontal therapy is a process used when the early stages of gum disease are detected. Scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and occlusal adjustments are each considered when treating gum disease.

Inadequate brushing and flossing allows plaque – a sticky film of bacteria and sugar – to build up on the surface of your teeth. If left unchecked, plaque eventually hardens and turns to tartar, also known as calculus, a tough mineral deposit which can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist.

The Importance of Periodontal Therapy Aftercare

With proper aftercare, root planing and scaling can stop gum disease in its tracks and your gums will reattach themselves to your teeth and return to healthy, pink color.

Tartar is most dangerous when it forms close the the gumline because it irritates the gums, causing them to retract and become inflamed. A common symptom that this has occurred is if your gums bleed after brushing. If this condition is allowed to progress, the bacteria can attack the bones beneath the gums, loosening teeth and eventually causing them to fall out.

Scaling involves the use of a a metal or ultrasonic tool to remove any tartar from the sides of the teeth. Root planing uses the same tool to reach deep into the gum pocket to remove bacteria, tartar and smooth out the base of the roots. This makes it more difficult for plaque to adhere there.

While the process is being carried out your dentist or hygienist will repeatedly flush your mouth in order to remove the loose pieces of tartar. They may also use antibiotic gel to kill off any remaining bacteria and help the gums heal more quickly.

We may also recommend Perio Protect to supplement periodontal therapy. This method helps remove bacteria below the gum-line with the use of trays that apply medicine to the gums.