When patients develop a serious form of gum disease called Periodontitis, they typically experience sensitivity in their teeth and gums. In turn, they may notice bleeding while brushing. A closer look at their gums may reveal redness and inflammation. In many cases, dentists suggest a form of periodontal treatment, depending on the severity of the gum disease. Today, there is an array of periodontal therapies, ranging from topical antiseptics to surgery. The question is, what is Periodontal Therapy?
To begin, Periodontists are dental experts in the treatment of periodontal disease. With specialized training and continued education, they are equipped to provide a multitude of non-surgical as well as regenerative treatments and even plastic surgery to address advanced gum disease. To better understand, consider the following non-invasive periodontal treatments:
- Root Planing and Scaling: To remove plaque and tartar that has collected deep within pockets of gum tissue near the root, dental professionals perform root planing or scaling, which is a precise cleaning of the root’s surface. While plaque and tartar are removed, the root is also smoothed in an effort to remove toxins. For many patients, root planing or scaling is all that’s necessary to treat their periodontal disease. For others, additional treatments such as antibiotics may follow.
- Tray Delivery System: A custom-fit tray, similar to a fluoride tray, may be designed to deliver antibiotics to patients with periodontal disease. It’s important to understand–while the FDA has cleared the tray delivery system, it may not be the best choice of treatment for every case.
Advanced Dentistry
Dr. Leia Porcaro at Grateful Dental understands that it may be difficult for patients to accept that while their teeth look good, their gums could still be in poor health. This is why Dr. Porcaro values the use of high tech equipment, as it successfully removes hardened tartar quickly and easily, while keeping patients comfortable. Thus, if you suspect that you have gum disease, do not wait. Call Grateful Dental today for advanced dentistry and periodontal therapies to help restore your oral health.
