Treatment

Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Dr. Reed or Dr. Brostowitz will evaluate if you have any stage of periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.  Periodontal disease progresses as the pocket between the tooth and the gums gets filled with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues. When these irritants remain in the pocket space they cause damage to the gums and bone that support the teeth. This area must be thoroughly cleaned out by the doctor or hygienist to stop the irritation and inflammation. The depth of the pockets is too deep for a toothbrush to reach into the pockets and effectively remove the bacteria and irritants.

Depending on the stage of periodontal disease, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing might be recommended. It is usually done in a series of appointments. During scaling and root planing, tartar, plaque and toxins are removed from above and deep below the gumline. Rough spots on the roots (a result of the inflammation and disease) are made smooth again by special planing instruments. In the absence of infection and with smooth root surfaces, there can be some reattachment to the root, causing the pocket size to decrease. Special medicines are placed under the gum to prevent the bacteria from recolonizing the area. There are special tools that may be recommended to help keep the teeth clean after the root planing.

If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be required to reduce the pocket depths, making the teeth easier to keep clean in the future.