Treating gum disease below the gumline
Periodontal disease affects the gums and other structures that support the teeth. When plaque and tartar collect below the gumline, routine brushing and professional preventive cleaning may not reach the affected root surfaces. Periodontal therapy is intended to remove these deposits, reduce inflammation, and create conditions that make the disease easier to manage.
Treatment is based on an examination rather than symptoms alone. Gum disease may cause bleeding, swelling, recession, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, but it can also progress with little discomfort.
Your periodontal evaluation
Before recommending treatment, we assess the gums, plaque and tartar deposits, bleeding, recession, pocket depths, tooth mobility, and other relevant findings. Diagnostic imaging may be used to evaluate changes in the bone supporting the teeth when clinically appropriate.
Your medical and dental history also informs the plan. Tobacco use, diabetes and other health conditions, medications, dry mouth, previous periodontal treatment, and daily home care can affect risk and healing. After reviewing the findings, we explain which areas need care and whether nonsurgical therapy is an appropriate next step.
Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing—sometimes called a deep cleaning—is a nonsurgical treatment for selected cases of periodontal disease. Scaling removes plaque and hardened tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. Root planing smooths accessible root surfaces and removes deposits that contribute to inflammation.
Treatment may be divided into sections of the mouth so each area can be treated thoroughly and comfortably. Local anesthetic may be used when appropriate. The number of appointments depends on the extent and location of disease, comfort considerations, and the individual treatment plan.
Adjunctive treatment when appropriate
Mechanical removal of plaque and tartar is the foundation of nonsurgical periodontal therapy. In selected situations, an adjunct such as a locally delivered antibiotic may also be discussed. Antibiotics are not necessary for every patient and do not replace thorough treatment or daily plaque control.
Soft-tissue laser technology may be considered for selected procedures within an individual care plan. No adjunctive technology can guarantee healing or substitute for diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and ongoing maintenance.
What to expect after treatment
Temporary tenderness, bleeding, or sensitivity may occur after scaling and root planing. We provide instructions based on the areas treated and let you know when to contact the practice. Consistent brushing and careful cleaning between the teeth are important, but the treated tissues may require temporary adjustments to your routine while they settle.
A follow-up evaluation allows us to assess inflammation, bleeding, pocket measurements, and your response to home care. Some areas may respond well to nonsurgical therapy, while others may require additional treatment or coordination with a periodontal specialist.
Periodontal maintenance
Periodontal disease requires continued monitoring after active treatment. Periodontal maintenance visits remove new plaque and tartar, reassess the gums and supporting structures, reinforce home-care techniques, and identify areas that need attention.
The recommended interval is personalized and may be more frequent than a routine preventive-cleaning schedule. It can change according to your response to treatment, risk factors, and clinical findings. Maintenance helps manage the condition, but it cannot guarantee that disease will not recur or progress.
Supporting healthier gums at home
Professional therapy works best alongside consistent daily care. Brush thoroughly twice a day, clean between the teeth with the method recommended for you, and avoid tobacco. Managing relevant health conditions and keeping scheduled maintenance visits also support periodontal health.
If you notice increasing pain, swelling, drainage, persistent bleeding, or a tooth that feels loose, contact the practice rather than waiting for your next scheduled visit.
Schedule a periodontal evaluation
If you have signs of gum disease or were told that you may need a deep cleaning, an evaluation can clarify the diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Contact Excellence Dental Care to arrange a visit and discuss your gum-health needs.