Periodontal Treatment

Treating Gum Disease at Every Stage

Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria, plaque, and tartar build up in the space between your teeth and gums, irritating the surrounding tissues. Left untreated, these irritants can damage your gums and eventually the bone that supports your teeth.

At Essex Dental Arts, we evaluate every patient for signs of periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment based on the type and severity of your condition.

Early-Stage Treatment: Gingivitis

If we catch the disease in the early stages of gingivitis before any damage has occurred, treatment is straightforward. We'll recommend one to two regular cleanings and provide you with personalized instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits. With consistent home care and regular dental cleanings, early gum disease can be reversed.

Advanced Treatment: Scaling and Root Planing

When periodontal disease has progressed to more advanced stages, we recommend a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning.

This procedure is usually performed one quadrant of your mouth at a time while the area is numbed for your comfort. During scaling and root planing:

• Scaling removes tartar, plaque, and toxins from above and below the gum line
• Planing smooths rough spots on the root surfaces to help gum tissue heal

This treatment helps your gum tissue heal and allows pockets to shrink back to a healthier depth. We may also recommend special medicated mouth rinses, medications, or an electric toothbrush to help control infection and support healing.

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When Surgery May Be Needed

If pockets do not heal adequately after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be necessary to reduce pocket depths and make your teeth easier to clean. In some cases, we may recommend that you see a periodontist, a specialist in gums and supporting bone, for advanced care.

Our Approach

We believe in catching gum disease early and treating it conservatively whenever possible. Our team will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you maintain healthy gums for life.