Periodontal Disease Progression and Evaluation
Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Periodontal disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums becomes filled with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues. When these irritants remain in the pocket space, they can damage the gums and eventually the bone that supports the teeth.
Periodontal Treatment Options
If periodontal disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis and no permanent damage has occurred, one to two regular dental cleanings may be recommended. You will also receive guidance on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and maintaining regular dental visits.
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) may be recommended. This treatment is typically completed one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. During the procedure, plaque, tartar, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling), and rough areas on the tooth roots are smoothed (planing). This helps the gum tissue heal and allows periodontal pockets to shrink. Medications, medicated mouth rinses, or an electric toothbrush may also be recommended to support healing and infection control.
If the pockets do not heal following scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be necessary to reduce pocket depths and make teeth easier to clean. In some cases, your dentist may also recommend a referral to a periodontist, a specialist in gum health and the supporting bone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
What are the treatment options for periodontal (gum) disease?
Treatment depends on how advanced your periodontal disease is. Early stages may be treated with professional cleanings, while more advanced cases often require deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing. If pockets don’t respond to non-surgical care, surgical options may be recommended to help reduce pocket depth and support gum health.
Q.
How will I know if I need periodontal treatment?
Your dentist or hygienist will recommend treatment if signs of periodontal disease are present, such as deep gum pockets, bleeding gums, inflammation, or bone loss around the teeth. A thorough exam and measurement of gum pocket depths are used to determine your personalized treatment plan.
Q.
Is periodontal treatment painful?
Most periodontal treatments are performed with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Some mild sensitivity or soreness after treatment is common, but our team provides tips to help manage any discomfort.
Q.
How long does periodontal treatment take?
The duration varies by severity and the type of treatment needed. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be completed over multiple appointments by quadrants of the mouth to ensure your comfort and thorough care.
Q.
Will I need surgery for periodontal disease?
Not always. Many cases can be managed with non-surgical therapies like deep cleaning and periodontal maintenance. However, if gum pockets don’t respond to initial treatment or if bone loss is severe, periodontal surgery may be recommended to improve gum health and reduce pocket depths.
Q.
Can periodontal disease be cured?
Periodontal disease can be managed and controlled, but it cannot be fully “cured” in the traditional sense. With proper treatment and ongoing maintenance, you can stop disease progression and maintain healthier gums long term.