Periodontal Disease ("Gum Disease") happens when bacteria get below the gum line, causing the attachment between the gum and tooth to be lost. It is a silent, chronic, painless and communicable bacterial infection that often goes undetected or ignored until severe gum and bone destruction has taken place, and can no longer be ignored. Left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, and therapy for an advanced case is often costly and uncomfortable.

 

     The method of treatment for periodontal diseases depends upon how far the condition has progressed. The first step is usually a thorough cleaning which may include “Scaling” (removing tartar or “calculus” deposits beneath the gum line.) To aid in the healing process, tooth roots may be “planed” or smoothed. Root Planing smooths the root surfaces of the teeth so that gum tissues may heal and re-attach to the teeth.

 

     In some advanced cases of Periodontal Disease, gum surgery may be needed to (1) remove infected areas of gum tissue and re-contour the bone around teeth, and (2) allow the patient to cleanse their teeth more effectively.

 

     However, with most adults, a system of “Soft Tissue Management” can be devised to customize a specific cleaning regimen, geared to the individual, for cleaning and maintaining proper periodontal health.