What is non-surgical periodontal therapy?
Non-surgical periodontal therapy uses minimally invasive techniques to treat periodontal disease or gum disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that develops from long-term plaque build-up on the teeth and gums.
Over time, plaque and bacteria can become trapped in pockets between your gums and teeth, leading to gum recession, loosened teeth, and even tooth loss.
To stop the progression of this infection, your periodontist at Santa Monica Bay Periodontics uses non-surgical periodontal therapy, eliminating these pockets of plaque while restoring your gum health.
Who needs non-surgical periodontal therapy?
You may need non-surgical periodontal therapy if you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, such as:
- Sensitive gums
- Pain when chewing
- Swollen gums
- Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
- Shifting or loosened teeth
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Receding gums
- Tooth loss
If you have advanced periodontal disease (periodontitis), you may have visible pockets of plaque in the space between your gums and teeth.
Are there different types of non-surgical periodontal therapy?
There are several different types of non-surgical periodontal therapy, including:
Scaling and root planing
If you have pockets of plaque trapped between your gums and teeth, your periodontist performs scaling and root planing to remove them. First, they numb your gums with an anesthetic before using small dental instruments to access the space between your gums and teeth.
With these tools, your periodontist can remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) while cleaning out any bacterial toxins. Depending on the progression of your infection, they may also apply an antibiotic to eliminate any signs of infection.
Once your tooth roots are clean and free of infection, your periodontist smooths them down to reattach your gums.
Laser dentistry
Santa Monica Bay Periodontics is proud to offer laser dentistry techniques with the Solea® laser. This dental laser can reshape and contour gingival tissue, remove decay, and restore your gum health without needles or scalpels.
How can I prevent gum disease after non-surgical periodontal therapy?
Many people require no further treatment after scaling and root planing, but the best way to avoid returning for a second treatment is to prevent your infection from returning. To prevent gum disease, you should:
- Brush and floss after eating
- Use an antiseptic mouth rinse
- Schedule bi-annual teeth cleanings
- Avoid sugar and starchy foods
- Quit smoking
If you’re experiencing signs of gum disease and need non-surgical periodontal therapy, call Santa Monica Bay Periodontics, or book an appointment online today.
