Periodontal Treatments
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an important oral health condition that should be treated as soon as possible. Treatment options depend on the severity of the disease.
The first step is often a nonsurgical treatment called scaling and root planing. During this procedure, ultrasonic instruments and hand tools remove plaque and tartar from areas that regular cleaning cannot reach, including below the gumline and around the roots. The rough surfaces of the teeth and roots are then smoothed to create a clean surface that allows the gum tissue to reattach more easily.
Scaling and root planing may be the only treatment needed to improve gum health, but continued care is essential. Good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, regular checkups, and professional cleanings can help keep the disease from returning.
If the periodontal tissue is too damaged to repair with nonsurgical treatment, the next step may be pocket-depth reduction, also known as flap surgery. The gum tissue is gently folded back so bacteria, plaque, tartar, and severely damaged tissue can be removed. The healthy tissue is then returned to its position, allowing the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Dental diode lasers offer precise treatment of the gums and other soft tissues. Laser treatment can reduce bleeding, help sterilize periodontal pockets, shorten healing time, and support tissue regeneration while reducing the need for traditional cutting and sutures.
