Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Dr. Weyman and your dental hygienist will evaluate you 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. Two quadrants of the mouth are usually done 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. Frequently, laser treatment and medicated irrigation are administered by the dental hygienist at this and future periodontal appointments. Periodontal patients need more frequent treatment visits. 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. You might be referred to a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).