Periodontal Therapy

What is Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal therapy is considered to be one of the conservative or nonsurgical treatments for gum disease. The objective of this method is to bring periodontal diseases under control. The result is, it brings the gum health back to its best, thus preventing tooth loss from recurring in future.

Symptoms of periodontitis?

Periodontitis may cause several symptoms and signs like:

Treatments options

Nonsurgical treatments

In case periodontitis is not too far gone, the treatment includes nonsurgical procedures, such as:

Scaling. Scaling refers to the process of removing tartar and bacteria from the tooth surface and below the gumline. It can be done using instruments, a laser, or an ultrasonic device.

Root planing. Root planing is the smoothing of root surfaces. This limits the accumulation of tartar and bacteria on the root surfaces. It also allows the gum to reattach itself to your teeth. Root planing is usually done along with scaling.

Antibiotics. Topical or oral antibiotics can be used to control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics may include antibiotic mouth rinses, or placing a gel containing antibiotic into the gum pockets. Oral antibiotics may be required at times to get rid of bacteria that cause infections.

Surgical treatments

Advanced periodontitis may require dental surgery, which may include:

Flap surgery, also known as pocket reduction surgery. Periodontist makes incisions in the gums to carefully fold back the tissue. The tooth roots are exposed for a more effective scaling and root planing. As periodontitis results in loss of bone, the underlying bone is reshaped before the gum tissue is stitched back in place. After healing, it will be much easier to clean the spaces between the teeth and maintain healthy gum tissue.

Soft tissue grafts. Loss of gum tissue, causes gumline to get lower, and exposes some of the tooth roots. It may be required to have some of the affected tissue reinforced. This is often done by removing a small amount of tissue from the roof of the mouth or tissue from another donor source and attaching it to the affected site. This can help prevent further gum loss, cover the exposed roots and provide better appearance to the teeth.

Bone grafting. Bone grafting is performed if periodontitis destroys the bone around your tooth root. The graft may be made from tiny pieces of your own bone, or be made of artificial material or donated. Bone graft prevents tooth loss by holding your tooth in place. It also provides a platform for the regrowth of natural bone.

Guided tissue regeneration. It helps in the regrowth of bone that was destroyed by bacteria. In one method, your dentist places a special kind of fabric between the existing bone and your tooth. The material prevents the growth of unwanted tissue from filling the healing area and enables bone to grow back instead.

Tissue-stimulating proteins. In another method, a special gel is applied to a diseased tooth root. The gel contains the same proteins that are present in the developing tooth enamel and stimulates the growth of healthy bone and tissue.

At-Home Aftercare Tips

Once the periodontal therapy is done, you can continue with your regular oral health care routine to keep the gums in optimal health. The routine includes flossing and then brushing for at least 2 minutes after every meal. Consuming meals that have a high immune-boosting properties like fruits and vegetables can also help your gums heal.

In case, if your dentist prescribed you antibiotics, you must take care to finish off the prescription. This will help in reducing the possibility of the bacteria developing resistance to the medicine. It’s also a good idea to visit your dentist frequently in short periods, so that your oral health care provider can keep a check on the health of your teeth and gums.

Complications of periodontitis

Periodontitis, if left untreated, can result in several complications such as:

How to Prevent Gum Disease?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gum disease reversible?

Early gingivitis is reversible; advanced periodontitis can be managed but not reversed.

Does periodontal treatment hurt?

Numbing is used to ensure comfort during deep cleaning.

How long does healing take?

Initial healing takes 1–2 weeks; gum re-attachment continues for months.

Will I need surgery?

Only if gum disease is advanced or pockets are too deep.

How often should I return after treatment?

Many patients need maintenance cleanings every 3 months.

Get in Touch with Us

If you’re looking for quality dental care in Lowell or surrounding communities such as Dracut, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Billerica, Tyngsborough, or Methuen, contact Smiley Dental Lowell today at 978-999-9000. Our team is here to help you achieve a smile you’ll love.