Keep your gums healthy and free of infection
Periodontitis is advanced gum disease. Your teeth may become loose, and you can lose gum tissue and even bone. Periodontal therapy stops the disease from progressing and repairs the damage as quickly and thoroughly as possible.
Safe and minimally invasive treatment
Experts agree that gum treatment should be as safe and minimally invasive as possible. Your dentist assesses how advanced your gum disease is and plans the treatment that is best for you. You might need a deep cleaning, called scaling and root planing, or medication to clear the infection. If the disease has progressed too far, you and your dentist may consider gum surgery.
Deep cleaning
When gum disease advances, the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets where bacteria grow. A deep cleaning removes these bacteria. It may be repeated several times as your gums heal and fit more closely around your teeth.
Scaling and root planing
Our first priority is to stop the infection. Scaling removes hard tartar from your teeth, including below the gum line. Root planing then smooths the tooth roots, so food, minerals and bacteria have a harder time sticking to them. For some patients, one treatment is enough. Many need several before their gums are back to health.
Medications
Medication can be used instead of, or together with, scaling and root planing. Antibiotics can be placed in the gum pockets after a deep cleaning, or prescribed by mouth. Some patients use custom trays at home with a medicated gel to reduce bacteria and help healing.
Your part at home
Your dentist treats gum disease, but you care for your gums every day. Brush, floss and keep your regular checkups so we can catch any signs of gum disease early. Ask about Guided Biofilm Therapy for gentle, thorough maintenance cleanings.
