Periodontal Maintenance

Gum disease is a common and treatable affliction for most adults. Thorough oral hygiene can reverse gum disease in its early stages so that not all gingivitis progresses. When plaque is allowed to build up, however, it mineralizes and becomes more difficult to treat. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease in which the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed, and the teeth themselves may eventually become loose.

We at Toomin & Bieber Aesthetic Comprehensive Dentistry in Burbank, CA aim to remove plaque and tartar before they can cause gum disease or necessitate further intervention. However, if you are one of the many Americans living with gum disease, we can help restore your smile to its healthy, vibrant best.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing, also referred to as “conventional periodontal therapy” or “non-surgical periodontal therapy” is a type of deep cleaning procedure recommended for patients experiencing gum disease.

This procedure is a deep-cleaning method done under local anesthetic during which we will remove the plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Scaling is when we scrape the plaque and hardened tartar (or calculus) from the gumline. Root planing is when rough spots on the tooth root are made smooth again, removing bacteria and leaving a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth. If a patient’s gum disease has developed into plague and tartar under their gums, we will likely recommend scaling or root planning.

Gum Disease Maintenance

If you’ve already received treatment for gum disease, you have likely been prescribed periodontal disease maintenance to protect the health of your gums. Periodontal disease maintenance consists mainly of deep cleaning by a dental professional, as well exams, x-rays, and application of any necessary medications. These cleanings are vital to restoring and maintaining healthy gums and bones because deeper periodontal “pockets” have formed between your teeth and gums where plaque and tartar can form as a result of the prior gum disease. Periodontal maintenance will require more frequent visits than the standard once every six months, typically every three months or so, but will help to make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy.

Gum Disease Surgery

Osseous surgery becomes necessary when bacteria enlarges the pockets around your teeth by eating away at the soft and hard tissues in your mouth. The alveolar bone, teeth, and gums should fit together tightly. If they do not, then bacteria will spread unchecked throughout the gums.

The goal of osseous surgery is to reduce pockets, recontour compromised bone, and remove damaged tissue. Ideally, Lawrence Toomin, DDS will eliminate infection, remove decay, and prevent potential future damage that would occur if left untreated.

Call our office at (818) 748-9998 today to schedule a check-up and discuss your options to treat gum disease.