Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease.  After a comprehensive periodontal exam, Dr. Miller will recommend the appropriate treatment and discuss the options.

If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings closely spaced apart will be recommended.  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 cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended.  It is usually done two quadrants (upper and lower on the same side) of the mouth at a time while the area is numb.  In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planing).  This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink.  Medications (antibiotics), special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.

3 months after the scaling and root planning, Dr. Miller will re-evalaute your periodontal status. If the treatment has resolved the gum disease, Dr. Miller recommend a regular recall program usually involving having your teeth cleaned 3-4 times per years alternating between our office and your general dentist. If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to eliminate the infection and reduce the pockect depths making teeth easier to clean and maintain.