How Are Gum Diseases Treated?

A common question we’re asked by our patients in our Ft. Lauderdale and Deerfield Beach offices is…”How Are Gum Diseases Treated?”

The answer?

Well…in a variety of ways, most of which are dependent on the individual patient’s specific condition.

Overall, however, gum disease is mostly controlled and prevented by controlling infection. To control infection the dentist or hygienist removes plaque that contains harmful bacteria.

Sometimes the dentist will prescribe an antibacterial mouth rinse or an antibiotic that will help kill the germs that are causing periodontitis.

And sometimes, more direct procedure will be suggested. Most often, this is done by scaling and root planing.

Scaling and Root Planing Treatments

These are deep cleaning procedures that remove tartar from above and beneath the gum surface.

Planing the tooth removes rough edges where bacterial plaque gathers and allows the gum tissue to heal closer to the tooth thus eliminating pockets.

After these procedures are completed it is very important that you brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent plaque from building up again.

Note: Scaling and root planing may have to be repeated every three to four months. There are times when this conservative treatment is not enough and surgery is required.

More questions for a local periodontist? Let’s chat.

If you have questions for a periodontist – please contact our offices. We’d be happy to talk more with you!

Deerfield Beach office: (954) 427-5700