Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease present. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Periodontal disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums gets filled with bacteria, plaque and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues. When these irritants remain in the pocket space, they can cause damage to the gums and eventually, the bone that supports the teeth!
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended. In this procedure, tartar, plaque and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on the root surfaces are made smooth (planing) while the area is numb. This procedure helps pockets to shrink and gum tissue to heal. Once an area of infected tissues has been cleaned, a localized antibiotic (Arestin – minocycline HCl 1mg) may be recommended to continue the healing process. The antibiotic is placed into the deep pockets and released over thirty days, giving it the best chance to heal. Medications, special prescription mouth rinses and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and recommended dental cleaning frequency.
If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean. Your dentist may also recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).