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 It is usually done two quadrants,
or half 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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