If you have been diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease, the good news is that it can be treated successfully. Often the first step involves a special cleaning called “scaling and root planning” or “deep cleaning” to remove plaque and tartar deposits on the tooth and root surfaces. This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and gum pockets to shrink. Our dentists may also recommend medications and mouth rinse to help control the infection and pain to aid healing. Most patients do not need any additional treatments and only require regular scheduled dental cleanings. Simple steps such as following good oral hygiene, brushing between the teeth, eating a balanced diet or avoiding tobacco should go a long way to keep a lifetime of healthy smiles. In some cases, if the gum pockets are deep and the supporting bone is lost, more advanced procedures might be necessary.
