Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. If it is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings should take care of it. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings.
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal deep cleaning needs to take place. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. Tartar, plaque and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planing) helping gum tissue heal and pockets shrink. Medications, medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.
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.
