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Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a bacterial infection that threatens to cause tooth loss if left untreated. However, it can be stopped or reversed when caught by a qualified dentist.

At Sapphire Smiles, we complete a comprehensive oral health assessment during every cleaning. Our dentist inspects your mouth for signs of gum disease, including checking the pocket depth measurement around each tooth. You will be referred to our board-certified periodontist for periodontal therapy if they notice any signs of inflammation or tissue damage.

The Periodontal Examination

Diagnosing periodontal disease is done through an in-depth physical examination. We use a periodontal probe to determine where there is a loss of tissue attachment and an intraoral camera to view the inside of your mouth. This examination helps you visualize the state of your oral health and learn how periodontal therapy will help you.

What Is Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal therapy is a broad term that describes a variety of dental treatments, from dental cleanings to surgery. In the early stages of this disease, our periodontist may recommend a less invasive treatment, like scaling and root planing.

It is crucial to catch and stop gum disease before the condition worsens and requires surgery. When periodontal disease continues to advance, it leads to severe infections and receding gums. These conditions may cause bone loss or tooth loss.

Types of Periodontal Therapy

A few different procedures can address gum disease and help restore your healthy and bright smile.

Your periodontal therapy treatment plan will be based on your specific condition and customized to meet your needs.

Prophylaxis Dental Cleaning

Prophylaxis is also known as routine dental cleaning. Our hygienist uses periodontal scaling to clear plaque and tartar accumulated around your teeth. Because there is no gum recession, the bacterial infection can be removed on the surface.

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Once the bacterial infection has created deep gum pockets, some recession may occur. You'll need periodontal scaling, root planing, or deep teeth cleaning at this stage. This treatment includes removing accumulated plaque and tartar and securing the surrounding gum tissue.

Gross Debridement

Gross debridement allows us to review the condition of your teeth and determine whether you need deep teeth cleaning. You might need this procedure if it has been some time since you last visited the dentist for a checkup.

Additional Treatment

Sometimes, our board-certified periodontist in Houston may recommend medications in combination with other periodontal therapy. Medication can help reduce bacteria in the mouth, relieve swollen gums, and shrink periodontal pockets. This medication may be applied to the treated pockets after a deep cleaning.

Our periodontist may recommend a prescription antimicrobial mouth rinse to use at home. These medicated rinses contain ingredients that fight bacteria and help prevent additional infections.

Another method of killing and eliminating bacteria is laser treatment. These procedures are often used for more advanced cases of periodontal disease.

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