Maintaining healthy gums is an essential part of overall oral health. When your gums are infected, known as periodontitis, harmful bacteria in your mouth builds up and covers your teeth in a sticky film called plaque. This plaque causes an infection which initially damages your teeth and if left untreated can progress to an advanced stage where it begins to eat away the gums, eroding the gum line and causing gaps known as periodontal pockets.
This is a serious condition and if not addressed can lead to loss of teeth and/or jawbone. The most common symptoms which may indicate a periodontal infection are:
Root surface debridement is the periodontal disease treatment used for gum disease. First, your teeth, gums, and entire oral cavity is deeply cleaned using our specialized dental equipment to remove all of the plaque and tartar deposits. Then, we smooth out the root surfaces of your teeth to help keep bacteria, tartar, or plaque from redepositing and causing further erosion of the gum line. After this procedure your gums may be tender, swollen, or sensitive for a few days, and you may be prescribed an antibiotic rinse to combat further infection. A follow-up appointment will be needed to ensure gums are healing properly.
Ready to get your periodontal gum disease under control? Schedule an appointment with our periodontist near you today!