Periodontal Therapy

Treatment of Gum Disease

Scaling/Root Planing

Patients with gum and periodontal disease require help in cleaning the deeper pockets found in the mouth. This deep tissue removal of calculus restores the mouth to health below the gum line. If left untreated, calculus build up can result in periodontal disease and irreversible bone loss. Not only will the bone begin to recede, leaving teeth more fragile and prone to loosening, it is linked to a number of other diseases.

Our hygienists spend a significant amount of time on each tooth that requires this deep cleaning. Usually, only one half of the mouth will be completed per appointment. It is common to receive anesthetic during this procedure since a cleaning of this depth is often uncomfortable. There are three levels of pain management available during this procedure, from topical gel, to a gel that is placed in each sulcus (gums around each tooth), to local anesthetic injection. Our hygienists will suggest which form of anesthetic is most appropriate for each situation.

Periodontal Maintenance

After successful scaling and root planing, our hygienists will recommend a little extra attention above and beyond what is provided at a regular cleaning appointment. By coming in for periodontal maintenance, we can keep the bacteria growing in the mouth under control and help to avoid further periodontal disease and bone loss. Generally, periodontal maintenance patients are recommended appointments at intervals of every 3-4 months.

Bone Grafting

If a patient is interested in getting implants placed in our office but don't have sufficient bone, our dentists may recommend having a routing bone graft procedure. This process can be easy or it can be very challenging depending on the situation, so it is important to talk to the dentist about expectations and outcomes.