Non-Surgical Approaches

Treatment Methods

Our office provides a variety of surgical services and while we take great pride in this work, we seek to limit surgery to those instances where it is absolutely necessary.

Often, the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy. Even in severe cases, non-surgical periodontal therapy often precedes surgical therapy.

Scaling and Root Planing

For many patients, treatment begins with a thorough cleaning that may include scaling to remove plaque and tartar deposits beneath the gum line.

The tooth roots may also be planed to smooth the root surface allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth.

Antibiotics or mouth rinses may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria. In some cases, antibiotics may be placed in the periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.

However sometimes surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.

Preventative Program

The vast majority of adults over the age of 35 are affected by gum disease at some point in their lives. But, this isn’t always due to a lack of care. Even the most diligent of flossers, brushers and mouthwash swishers develop periodontal disease.

Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress. Your treatment plan will include a three-month alternating periodontal maintenance (cleaning) schedule alternating between your dentist's office and ours.