Periodontitis is the breakdown and destruction of the bone and tissue that supports teeth. Before treating gum disease a proper diagnosis is necessary. Many factors affect the health of the teeth, gums and alveolar bone such as systemic diseases, oral hygiene, poorly fitting restorations, food impaction sites, spaces between teeth, medications etc. A thorough periodontal examination is performed and necessary x-rays are taken. During the exam we record periodontal pocket depths, gum tissue levels, bone levels, open furcations around multi-rooted teeth, plaque and tartar deposits, inflammation of the gum tissue etc. X-rays show bone levels, decay, pathology as well as other important data. With this information, a diagnosis is made and a treatment plan is developed.

Periodontal Maintenance

Our hygienists perform a thorough periodontal examination and necessary x-rays are taken. During the exam our hygienists record periodontal pocket depths, gum tissue levels, bone levels, open furcations around multi-rooted teeth, plaque and tartar deposits, inflammation of the gum tissue etc. Our hygienist will clean the teeth and root surfaces with ultrasonic instruments and hand instruments and finish by polishing the teeth. The purpose of this appointment is clean and debride the teeth and root surfaces and monitor the progress of the gum disease. Is the disease progressing or stabilized? Is further treatment necessary? Do you need to see a periodontist for advanced care?

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure used to treat gum disease. During the scaling process, specialized dental instruments are used to remove dental plaque and calculus from beneath the gums. Root Planing is the procedure used to smooth the tooth’s root surfaces after the scaling process. Root planing helps the gums heal and reattach themselves to a cleaner and smoother root surface.