Periodontal disease refers to infections that form around teeth, targeting specifically the structures that hold teeth in place. This includes the gums, alveolar bone, and periodontal ligament. The infection starts most commonly in the gums and is known— when only targeting that area— as gingivitis.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. It often doesn’t cause any pain for patients. The tissues around the tooth will be weakened to the point that it is too far gone to save. The patient will likely have not noticed the infection until it is too late.
At Providence Periodontics, we are dedicated to preventing periodontal disease and saving your teeth. We use several different types of approaches when it comes to treating periodontal disease, including non-surgical treatments such as deep cleaning as well as surgical options.
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease include deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing.
Scaling refers to hand cleaning of the infected area by cleaning down below the gumline, where the infection likely formed initially. Scaling will remove any plaque buildup. After the plaque buildup has been cleaned out, the exposed roots will be smoothed out or planed. The planing process clears away additional infections.
Surgical Periodontal Disease Treatment
In some cases of periodontal disease, a surgical approach may be necessary. Surgical periodontal disease treatment involves lifting the gums for an extensive cleaning of the potentially infected areas. Patients who opt for this treatment will receive the anesthesia required to numb the pain.
Protect Your Teeth from Gum Disease!
Gum disease can form even if you brush and floss daily and keep regular dental appointments. Our talented periodontists at Providence Periodontics are skilled at saving teeth endangered by periodontal disease. Call our office today to set up an appointment.