Many times,
the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with non-surgical
periodontal therapy. Even in severe cases of periodontal disease, non-surgical
periodontal therapy often precedes surgical therapy. This is done to improve the
overall tissue quality prior to surgery and also to help limit the areas
requiring surgery.Treatment
methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has
progressed. The first step is usually a thorough cleaning that may include
scaling to remove plaque and tartar deposits below the gum line.
Subgingival Scaling: Cleaning the tooth below the gumline.
The tooth
roots may also be planed to smooth the root surface allowing the gum tissue to
heal and reattach to the tooth. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require
adjustment.
Root
planing: Smoothing the tooth root
Antibiotics
or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be
recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause
periodontitis. In some cases, your doctor may place an antibiotic in the
periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control
infection and to encourage normal healing.
When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for your
doctor to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever,
keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed
to eliminate harmful bacteria and restore periodontal health.
Libertyville: 847 362-6650
