Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing
Gingivitis is when the gum becomes inflamed due to presence of food, bacteria, and byproducts of bacteria. This inflammation, if not treated over time, can cause damage to the bone structure that is holding the teeth. This damage is mostly seen by loss of bone surrounding the teeth. When the bone holding the teeth is lost, the teeth loose their support and become loose. Depending on how much damage has been done, a variety of treatments may be recommended. Signs of periodontal disease include redness of the gum, puffiness of the gum, bad smell of the mouth, probing measurements of 5 mm and/or more, and radiographic signs of bone loss. If this condition is not treated, the teeth will be lost over time.
Treatment for periodontitis depends on the stage of the disease. A deep cleaning is usually recommended, which is scaling and root planing. At times, a combination of scaling and root planing with laser treatment, as well as the use of antibacterial mouth rinse and/or use of oral antibiotics is recommended.
