Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal disease can cause bleeding gums, gum inflammation, bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth and tartar below the gum line. At Glenmore Park Dental Services, non-surgical periodontal treatment may include periodontal assessment, scaling below the gum line, root planing, oral hygiene advice and ongoing maintenance to help stabilise gum health.
Gum disease occurs when plaque or bacteria gets build up on or between your teeth, causing inflamed and irritated gums. Gingivitis can then turn into periodontitis if its left untreated, which is where the gums pull away from the teeth and form gaps or pockets that get infected.
So it’s essential to see a dentist if you experience swollen gums, bleeding, inflammation, shrinking gums or loose teeth.
What Is Periodontal Scaling And Root Planing?
Periodontal scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, including around deeper gum pockets. Root planing smooths the tooth roots so the gums can heal more comfortably and bacteria are less likely to collect around rough root surfaces.
Two-Phase Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment
Non-surgical periodontal treatment may take longer than a routine clean, and some patients need more than one appointment. Your dentist may recommend staged care when there is heavy tartar build-up, deeper gum pockets, bleeding gums, inflammation, gum recession, bone loss or loose teeth.
Local anaesthetic may be used where appropriate to keep the treatment more comfortable. After treatment, your dentist will explain home care, review timing and periodontal maintenance to help support long-term gum health.
Changes since previous check-ups
First your dentist can ask you about any changes you’ve noticed since your last dental check-up and how you’re feeling about this check-up.
Make sure you tell them about any:
- medication
- medical conditions
- allergies
- previous experiences with dental treatment
- anxiety or discomfort.
Check-up list for check-ups
The dentist will then check your mouth for any issues, including:
- tooth decay and cavities
- gum bleeding and tartar, and other signs of gum disease
- loose teeth
- wisdom teeth issues, including advising whether to keep or remove them.
X-rays
Your dentist might want you to take some x-rays during your check-up. They will use the x-rays to:
- check your tooth roots and jaw alignment
- look for tooth decay and cavities, abscesses near the root and periodontal disease
- recommend fillings or root canals.
Further treatment
If your dentist believes you need further treatment, such as fillings or root canals, they will either make a referral to a specialist or book you in for work at a time that suits you. They will tell you exactly what needs to be done and how much it will cost.
Advice for after check-ups
After the check-up, the dentist will give you tips on how to keel your teeth and gums healthy until your next check-up.
This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Smoking, alcohol and acidic foods are all detrimental not only to your health, but also to your teeth.
The dentist will make an assessment, and if further treatment is required, they will make a referral to a specialist, or create an outline of steps which you should take to help support your oral health
How We Approach Periodontal Treatment in Glenmore Park
Non-Surgical Options
We often begin with non-surgical treatment such as deep cleaning where appropriate.
Scaling & Root Planing
This deep-cleaning treatment removes build-up from below the gumline.
Aims to Slow Progression
Treatment aims to manage gum disease and help slow its progression.
Personalised Care Plan
Your dentist tailors a treatment and review plan to your individual needs.
Periodontal Disease Treatment FAQs
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a condition affecting the gums and the structures that support the teeth, usually caused by a build-up of plaque and bacteria. It can range from mild gum inflammation to more advanced stages. Your dentist can assess your gum health.
Can gum disease be treated?
Early gum disease can often be improved with professional cleaning and good oral hygiene. More advanced stages may be managed to help slow progression. The right approach depends on your individual situation, which your dentist will discuss with you.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning treatment that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots. It is a common non-surgical approach to managing gum disease.
Is periodontal treatment painful?
Treatment is usually carried out with local anaesthetic where appropriate to help keep you comfortable. Some tenderness afterwards can occur and generally settles. Let your dental team know about any concerns.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, attending regular check-ups, and avoiding smoking all help reduce the risk. Your dentist can give advice tailored to your needs.