Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy

Non-surgical therapy removes plaque and calculus by controlling the growth of harmful bacteria and by treating conditions that encourage gum disease. This type of treatment may be all that's needed, especially when periodontal disease is caught early. You may also need to have certain restorations replaced such as worn out fillings or crowns with overhanging margins that can accumulate plaque.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling is a type of cleaning that removes plaque and calculus from the teeth at and slightly below the gum line. Root planing smooths root surfaces, so the supportive tissues can better reattach to the tooth surface. Often, this will be done with local anesthesia so you can relax and feel nothing as we rehabilitate your gums. If soreness is experienced after the deep cleaning, rinsing with warm salt water aids in the healing of the disrupted gum tissue. Ongoing cleanings every 3-4 months is recommended to continue treatment of the gum tissue.

Antibiotics

Periodontal disease is a bacterial disease and the key to controlling or eliminating it is the effective reduction or elimination of harmful bacteria. An adjunctive option to scaling and root planing may be provided in either pill form or applied directly to the infected area (gum pocket) in the form of antibiotic powder. An antibacterial mouth rinse may also be prescribed to help control harmful bacteria.

Occlusal Adjustment

An improper bite may increase bone destruction around attached to at risk teeth. We may either choose to adjust your bite so that your teeth meet properly and function better or construct a custom bite guard or splint- a removable device that fits over upper or lower teeth - to protect teeth surfaces and relax tense jaw muscles.