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, 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.  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.  

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).

Once periodontal disease has been detected, Supportive Periodontal Therapy (SPT) or Periodontal Maintenance is recommended.  During this procedure, extra care is taken to evaluate for flare ups of periodontal disease which may require scaling and root planing.  It is also recommended to have cleanings 3-4 times per year to decrease the progression of the disease.  In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line on the tooth and root surfaces.  We will also use a special liquid to irrigate the areas to help prevent bacteria from building up in the sulcus.