Periodontal Treatment
Depending upon how severe your periodontal disease is, treatment will vary. After performing an evaluation for periodontal disease, your dentist and hygienist will make a recommendation regarding the correct treatment.
When the space or pocket (sulcus) between gums and tooth becomes filled with tartar, bacteria and plaque, it causes irritation and periodontal disease progresses. Gum damage can occur and bone supporting the teeth can be undermined if these irritants are allowed to remain in the pocket space.
When gingivitis is discovered in its early stages, before damage has occurred, one or two regular cleanings will be suggested. Instructions will also be provided regarding how to improve your daily oral hygiene habits, and you will be encouraged to have regular dental cleanings.
If the disease is more advanced, scaling and planing will be recommended. This is a special periodontal cleaning method. Normally one quadrant of the mouth is numbed and treated at a time. Scaling is the process used to remove toxins, plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Planing is the process used to smooth rough spots on the root surface. This procedure promotes healing of gum tissue and shrinkage of pockets. To help control infection and promote healing, your provider may suggest medications, special medicated mouth rinses and an electric toothbrush.
If, after scaling and root planing, the pockets do not heal, the pocket depths may need to be surgically reduced; this will result in making it an easier matter to clean the teeth. It is possible that your dentist will tell you to make an appointment with a Periodontist, a dental professional who specializes in caring for gums and supporting bone.
Bonita Del Rey Dental
Chula Vista Cosmetic Dentist
serving the Chula Vista, Eastlake and Bay Area, San Diego..
