Treatment Options for Patients with Periodontal Disease in Delray Beach
Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Understanding the Disease Process
Periodontal disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums gets filled with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues. When these irritants remain in the pocket space, they can cause damage to the gums and eventually, the bone that supports the teeth!
Treatment Approaches by Disease Stage
Early Stage Treatment (Gingivitis)
If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings. At this reversible stage, professional cleanings combined with improved home care can completely eliminate the infection and restore gum health.
Moderate Stage Treatment (Scaling and Root Planing)
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planing). This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink.
Following scaling and root planing, your dental team may recommend:
- Antimicrobial medications placed directly in the pockets
- Special medicated mouth rinses to control bacteria
- An electric toothbrush for more effective plaque removal
- More frequent maintenance cleanings (every 3-4 months)
Advanced Treatment Options
If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean. Surgical treatments may include:
Flap Surgery: Lifting the gums to provide access for thorough cleaning and pocket reduction.
Regenerative Procedures: Using bone grafts, membranes, or tissue-stimulating proteins to help rebuild lost bone and tissue.
Soft Tissue Grafts: Addressing severe gum recession by transplanting healthy tissue.
Specialist Referral
Your dentist may also recommend that you see a periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone) for complex cases or when specialized surgical intervention is required.
The Importance of Ongoing Care
Regardless of the treatment approach, long-term success depends on maintaining excellent oral hygiene and adhering to a regular maintenance schedule. Periodontal disease is manageable but requires lifelong attention to prevent recurrence and protect your investment in treatment.
