Periodontitis is a serious infection of the gums that progresses over time. It starts as gingivitis, usually with receding, bleeding gums and becomes more devastating as it continues to diminish the health of the gums, jawbone and teeth. The bacteria that cause periodontitis can also spread to the bloodstream, putting you at risk for strokes, type 2 diabetes and other serious health conditions. With general dentistry from Pure Smiles Dentistry, we can help stop the progression of gum disease with periodontal therapy options.

Gum Infection Treatment

To stop and even reverse periodontitis, the infection attacking the gum tissue must be treated. This starts with thorough dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar where the bacteria flourish and irritate the gum tissue. Prescription mouthwash can help fight the infection and frequent cleanings can help the gums heal while stopping the infection. The extent of treatment depends on the stage of gum disease. Deeper cleanings, including root scaling and planing, can be used to treat periodontitis and help restore gum health.

Scaling and Root Planing

When bacteria, plaque and tartar are hiding below the gum line, deeper cleanings of the tooth root are required to stop gum infections. This treatment involves scaling away tartar from the teeth roots, then planing or smoothing the roots. Since this needs to go beneath the gum line, the gums are numbed to prevent discomfort. The process of scaling and planing the roots is often done in sections since it can take a few hours to perform, but it is an effective option in stopping the progression of periodontitis and helping heal the gum tissue.

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, stop the progression and protect your health with periodontal therapy at Pure Smiles Dentistry. Contact our office to schedule your exam and begin treating your gum disease to maintain a healthy smile.