The answer? Well...in a variety of ways, most of which are dependent on the individual patient's specific condition.
Overall, however, gum disease is mostly controlled and prevented by controlling infection. To control infection the dentist or hygienist removes plaque that contains harmful bacteria.
Sometimes the dentist will prescribe an antibacterial mouth rinse or an antibiotic that will help kill the germs that are causing periodontitis. Regular teeth cleaning should be enough to either keep this issue controlled altogether, or detect it when it is highly manageable.
And sometimes, more direct procedure will be suggested. Most often, this is done by scaling and root planing.
These are deep cleaning procedures that remove tartar from above and beneath the gum surface.
Planing the tooth removes rough edges where bacterial plaque gathers and allows the gum tissue to heal closer to the tooth thus eliminating pockets.
After these procedures are completed it is very important that you brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent plaque from building up again.
Note: Scaling and root planing may have to be repeated every three to four months. There are times when this conservative treatment is not enough and surgery is required.
Please call our office or our doctors at 772-919-7093.
We at the Stuart Center for Laser Periodontics and Implants, welcome you to our practice. We are proud to serve the periodontal needs of people from Martin, St. Lucie, Palm Beach, Indian River, Vero Beach, Palm City, Port Salerno, Hobe Sound, Fort Pierce, Jensen Beach, West Palm, Gardens, Palm Beach, and Jupiter, FL. Dr. Nick DeTure is your Stuart periodontists, specializing in the treatment of gum disease. The Stuart Center for Laser Periodontics and Implants is a “state of the art” practice using the latest digital radiology, micro-surgery techniques and alternative treatments that are available. We pride ourselves in providing excellent, innovative and comprehensive care with compassion and understanding.