Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy

Gentle Care for Your Gums

When possible an alternative therapy for patients with a mild or moderate periodontal infection within their gum and bone tissues who are not exhibiting the signs and symptoms of severe periodontal disease may be a specialized course of non-surgical periodontal treatment sometimes known as root planning or deep scaling.

A routine hygiene visit or prophylaxis appointment will not treat this problem. This recommended treatment will help to prevent further loss of bone and gum tissues which are the supporting structures of the teeth. A periodontal evaluation including pocket depth charting will define the places where this infection exists.

Your treatment may include:

• Local anesthesia
• Analysis of your home care routine and development of a specific personal program for your needs.
• Thorough, deep scaling of the infected areas with smoothing and polishing of the root surfaces (also called root planning).
• Application of fluorides and desensitizing solutions.
• Antibiotic sub-gingival medication.
• Purchase for home use a professional, powered toothbrush and/or irrigating appliance.

The complete control of this problem requires specifically designed procedures in the office and your cooperative efforts at home on a daily basis.

Your goal will be to learn as much as possible about how this disease is affecting the health of bone and gum tissue around your teeth. We will show you how to control the plaque and bacteria that cause the disease. Some of these techniques require time to learn, so please be patient. Daily plaque control is very important.

Your periodontal health will be re-evaluated during the course of treatment and if significant infected sites still remain, additional treatment will be discussed. At the end of the program we will determine whether further treatment is necessary. Once the program is completed, it is absolutely imperative to maintain regular continuing care and health screening appointments to avoid repeated flare-ups. A three or four month maintenance interval is frequently recommended.

If you are covered by insurance, we will report all treatment information to your carrier. However, all plans are different and we cannot guarantee the extent of coverage, if any. Our primary concern is always your dental health.

If you notice any of the signs of Periodontal Disease

• Bad breath that won't go away
• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Receding Gums

It is time for action. We can help you.

If you wish more information regarding Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy or wish to find out how our highly trained staff might assist you please call us to schedule an evaluation and consultation. 440-461-8200. You may also email us though the “contact us” page on this website.