Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal disease is widespread among adults. It ranges from minor (such as gum inflammation) to serious (when damage to the bone or tissue holding teeth in place leads to tooth loss). Periodontal therapy can treat the disease at any stage.

Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy

Better oral care
Improving your oral hygiene is key to treating periodontal disease. Your dentist will offer you personalized recommendations, which may include more frequent cleaning or quitting smoking.
Deep cleaning
Your dentist can remove the tartar from your teeth that you are unable to clean off with a toothbrush. A deep cleaning involves scaling (scraping away tartar from below the gum line) and root planing (removing the toughest spots). After this, you may need to return for regular maintenance cleanings.

Medication
Your dentist may prescribe medications including antimicrobials, antiseptics, antibiotics, and enzyme suppressants.
Occlusal bite therapy
Once your gums are no longer inflamed, your dentist may need to treat issues related to loose teeth and clenching habits. This can involve localized grinding and orthodontic treatments.

Surgical Periodontal Therapy

Flap surgery
If inflammation and deep pockets remain after non-surgical treatment, you may need flap surgery. This involves first cleaning under gums and then suturing them back in place.
Grafting
If you have suffered bone or gum tissue loss, you may require grafting to promote regrowth. Your dentist may combine bone grafting with guided tissue regeneration to avoid the gum tissue invading the space where the bone should be.