Non Surgical Procedures
Scaling & Root Planing
The initial stage of treatment is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling to remove plaque and tartar deposits beneath the gumline.
|

Subgingival Scaling:
Cleaning the tooth below the gumline.
|
The tooth roots may also be planed to smooth the root surface allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require adjustment.
|

Root Planing:
Smoothing the tooth root.
|
Antibiotics or irrigation with anti-microbials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.
When deep pockets between teeth and gums are still present after the scaling and root planing, the infection is only temporarilly stopped. It is still impossible for you or the hygienist to remove all of the plaque and tartar . Since these pockets cant be kept clean and free of plaque, surgery may be needed to enable good periodontal health for the future.
|