Understanding Periodontal Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're dealing with gum disease or other periodontal issues, you may have heard about periodontal therapy. Approximately 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older experience some level of gum disease, which tends to increase with age. In fact, 70.1% of adults aged 65 years and older are affected by periodontal disease.

Unfortunately, many people lack the understanding of how detrimental gum disease can be, let alone what periodontal therapy entails, its benefits, and how it can improve oral health.

Whether you're experiencing early signs of gum disease or need advanced periodontal treatment, read on to discover the facts and where to get periodontal therapy in Houston.

What Is Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal therapy encompasses a range of treatments aimed at addressing gum disease and other issues affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. These treatments are designed to remove bacteria and plaque from the gums and teeth, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of damaged tissues.

Different Types of Periodontal Therapy

Several procedures are available to treat gum disease, bleeding gums, and gum pain and restore your smile to its healthy and bright state. Your periodontal therapy plan will be tailored to your specific condition and needs to improve your gum health.

Prophylaxis Dental Cleaning

Prophylaxis, also known as routine dental cleaning, involves periodontal scaling to remove plaque and tartar buildup around your teeth. Since there is no gum recession, this procedure targets bacterial infection on the tooth surfaces.

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

When bacterial infection causes deep gum pockets and some recession, periodontal scaling, root planing, or deep teeth cleaning may be necessary. This treatment involves removing accumulated plaque and tartar and smoothing the tooth roots to secure the surrounding gum tissue.

Gross Debridement

Gross debridement allows us to assess the condition of your teeth and determine if you require deep teeth cleaning. This procedure may be recommended if it has been a while since your last dental checkup.

Additional Periodontal Treatment

In some cases, our board-certified periodontist in Houston may suggest medications as part of your periodontal therapy. These medications can help reduce oral bacteria, alleviate gum swelling, and shrink periodontal pockets. After a deep cleaning, the medication may be applied to the treated pockets. You may also be prescribed an antimicrobial mouth rinse for you to use at home. These rinses contain ingredients that combat bacteria and help prevent further infections. Another method of eliminating bacteria is through laser gum treatment, which is often used in advanced cases of periodontal disease.

How Periodontal Therapy Works

Periodontal therapy may not look the same for everyone experiencing gum disease symptoms. Each patient needs careful examination and evaluation to determine the right course of treatment and therapy for their gum health.

• Diagnosis and Evaluation: Before starting any periodontal treatment, our experienced team will thoroughly evaluate your oral health to determine the extent of the gum disease and the best course of action. This may involve a comprehensive examination, including X-rays and other diagnostic tools, to assess the condition of your gums and teeth.
• Non-Surgical Treatments: In many cases, early-stage gum disease can be effectively treated with non-surgical methods such as scaling and root planing. This involves removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and below the gumline to promote healing and prevent further damage.
• Surgical Treatments: For more advanced cases of gum disease, surgical intervention may be necessary to address deep pockets of infection or to restore damaged gum tissues. Our skilled periodontists are trained in a variety of surgical techniques to provide the most effective treatment for your individual needs.
• Maintenance and Follow-Up: After undergoing periodontal therapy, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene practices and attend regular check-ups to ensure that your gums remain healthy. Our team will provide you with personalized recommendations for at-home care and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
• Long-Term Benefits: Periodontal therapy not only helps to treat existing gum disease but also provides long-term benefits for your oral health. By addressing the underlying causes of gum disease and maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine, you can reduce the risk of future complications and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

Where Can I Find Periodontal Therapy in Houston?

At Sapphire Smiles Dentistry in Houston, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Dr. Ernest Erian, our board-certified periodontist, uses the latest techniques and technologies to deliver exceptional results and ensure your comfort throughout your treatment. We believe that your smile deserves the best care, and our team is here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

If you're experiencing symptoms of gum disease or are concerned about your periodontal health, don't wait to seek treatment. Contact Sapphire Smiles Dentistry today to learn more about how periodontal therapy can improve your oral health and get results.

Ready to improve your oral health with periodontal therapy and take the next step toward a happier smile?