Periodontal Treatment

Periodontics is the treatment of gum disease.

Periodontal disease is caused by the bacteria found in plaque. If plaque is not regularly removed, it calcifies into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. By products of bacterial metabolism irritate the gums, making them red, tender, swollen and more prone to bleed.

In the earlier states of gum disease (mild to moderate periodontitis), most treatment involves scaling and root planning. The procedure aims at removing plaque and calculus from the surface of the tooth adjacent to gum tissue. The periodontal pockets around the tooth are cleaned and all effected root surfaces are smoothed. In the majority of early gum disease cases, treatment entails improved home care techniques and scaling and root planning.

If left untreated, eventually, the supporting periodontal structures begin to breakdown. The result of this slow process is tissue loss, bone loss and eventual tooth loss. Not only this, poor oral health can affect your overall health as bacteria from the gums can enter the blood stream and travel to major organs, starting new infections. Research shows that this can contribute to the development of heart disease and increase the risk of stroke. It can also pose a serious threat to those with health problems such as diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis.

Advanced cases may require surgical treatment.