What are the Treatments for Periodontal disease?

After evaluating your dental health, Dr. Paul Bivens will discuss various treatment options available to you. The treatments vary depending on the severity of your condition and may include the following:

Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

This is a thorough professional cleaning which includes deep scaling to remove the plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line. The roots of the teeth may also be planed to smooth them and remove deposits which will allow the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth structure. An anti-microbial rinse may be prescribed to help control the growth of bacteria and to encourage healing.

Pocket Depth Reduction (gum surgery)

The pocket which is between the tooth and gum is measured, and if too deep to clean with daily home care, the diseased tissue will be surgically removed and the pocket cleansed of bacterial infection.

Regenerative Procedures:

A regenerative procedure including bone grafts or tissue-stimulating proteins may be used to stimulate the regeneration of bone and supporting tissues.

Soft Tissue Grafts

Due to gum recession, your teeth may appear longer than normal because more of the root of the tooth is exposed. Gum recession may be due to aggressive brushing or gum disease. Once the recession is under control, a soft tissue graft can cover the exposed roots. Tissue may be taken from a source in the mouth to even your gum-line which reduces the sensitivity and improves the look of your smile.