What is the treatment for periodontal disease?
Removing plaque daily by brushing and flossing is one of the most important therapies for periodontal disease. In the dental office, the early stages of gum disease are generally treated with removal of the plaque and calculus around the teeth. Small dental instruments, called scalers and curettes, are inserted around and in the gum pockets to remove the plaque and calculus deposits and to make the roots smooth. This procedure is called scaling and root planing. New technology has improved this process using more advanced automated instruments that often can save time and reduce discomfort. Sometimes, local anesthetic is recommended if the tissues are tender or if the infection is deep. More advanced causes may require surgical treatment to gain access to the deep infection causing plaque and calculus. Surgical therapy also can help shrink pockets, regenerate lost bone and gum, and make the mouth easier to clean.
