Recent advances have expanded our options in treating periodontal disease. Often, if periodontal disease is identified soon enough, thorough cleaning of the roots and elimination of risk factors like heavy biting forces and food traps between your teeth can control the disease if followed by exceptional plaque control at home. In some cases local antibiotic delivery or other medications can assist in achieving a successful outcome without surgery.
Periodontal disease is one of the most common reasons that patients become more susceptible to tooth decay, tooth loss and more. We can help guide you toward a path of healing faster if caught early enough. Take a look at the following symptoms and see if you fall under any of these:
Loose teeth
Bad breath
Bad taste on the tongue
Receding gums
Swollen gums
Red, irritated gums
Sensitive, tender gums
Pus between your teeth and gums
Change in bite pressure
If you have one or more of the symptoms listed above, it’s time to pay us a visit here in Englewood, NJ. If your fear is of invasive surgical procedures that could possibly leave scars, we have non-surgical options to help heal the areas affected by periodontal disease.
Scaling/Root Planing
Scaling/Root Planing is a non-surgical procedure, done under a local anesthetic, whereby plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line are scraped away (scaling) and rough spots on the tooth root are made smooth (planing). Smoothing the rough spots removes bacteria and provides a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth. Scaling and root planing is done if Dr. Stearns determines that you have plaque and calculus (hardened plaque, also called tartar) under the gums that need to be removed.
Periodontal Maintenance
After periodontal therapy, it is critical that you continue with regular periodontal maintenance appointments to maintain the healthy condition that has been achieved through treatment. This also allows for oral examinations and regular check-ups to identify cavities or any potential concerns. Failure to have professional preventive care at the recommended interval is the most frequent reason that periodontal disease recurs.
If you’re afflicted with periodontal disease in Englewood, NJ a non-surgical alternative is available with Dr. Neil S. Stearns. Contact us today to learn more about how to qualify for these options and extra steps you can take to ensure that your oral health stays in top shape.