Treatment for Gum Disease: Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal Therapy, also known as scaling and root planing, is a simple procedure that works by deeply cleaning between the gums and teeth all the way down to the roots. It removes the built up dental plaque and tartar, and stops gum disease. This procedure is done when the gums have either started to pull away from the teeth, or the roots of the teeth have developed hard mineral deposits (tartar) on them.

Though scaling and root planing causes little or no discomfort, due to the more extensive nature of this procedure, usually only one half or one quarter of the mouth is generally cleaned during one appointment. This segmented approach allows the patient a more comfortable experience in their periodontal treatment and it also allows each area of the gums to be entirely numbed while undergoing their deep cleaning.

How Well Does It Work?

If you maintain good oral care after the procedure, the progression of gum disease should stop. And your gums will heal and become firm and pink again. Remember to brush and floss regularly afterward. Without proper dental care, your gum disease may progress.

The long term effectiveness of scaling and root planing depends upon a number of factors. These include patient dental care compliance, disease progress at the time of intervention, probing depth, and anatomical factors like grooves in the roots of teeth, concavities, and limited visibility of underlying deep calculus and debris.

If you are due for your next exam at StarBrite Dental , or are experiencing any issues, please call the office today to schedule an appointment: (301) 770-1070 .