A nonsurgical gum disease treatment is designed to treat mild to moderate forms of gum disease. The primary cause of the periodontal disease is the human body's inflammatory reaction to the presence of bacterial plaque. Non-surgical periodontal therapy can remove and eradicate the etiologic factors that cause inflammation. These are dental plaque and associated toxins, as well as tartar, which is hardened dental plaque. Typically, patients needing this treatment are in the early stages of gingivitis. At Wesley Yemoto DDS, we recommend deep cleaning and good oral hygiene practices for early-stage cases at home. However, for advanced cases of periodontal disease, we may need to perform surgery to remove the infection and restore oral health.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is an oral infection that attacks the gums and bone-supporting teeth. It is a chronic condition that worsens without routine, professional care. Gingivitis is the earlier stage of gum disease and occurs when bacteria build up in plaque along the gum line. When left untreated, this plaque buildup will harden into tartar, further irritating the gums. This irritation can cause them to redden, swell, and bleed easily. The condition is reversible at this stage because the bone has not yet been affected.
Periodontitis is the later stage of the disease when the bone becomes infected, and the gum tissues recede, creating pockets between the teeth and gums. Once the bone is affected, the disease cannot be reversed. Pocket reduction surgery may be performed to reduce the depth of the pockets and restore proper alignment to the teeth.
Types of Non-Surgical Gum Treatment
Scaling and Root Planing
Some patients require deeper cleanings to get rid of bacteria and calculus below the gum line, which can only be accomplished with a procedure known as scaling and root planing. This procedure carefully cleans the teeth and gums using an ultrasonic tool and an antimicrobial liquid. If the periodontist finds any deep pockets of infection or decay during this procedure, they will also clean those out. Most patients experience little to no discomfort with scaling and root planing.
Tray Delivery Systems
A tray distribution system comprises a custom-fit tray created from the patient's mouth imprints. At home, patients utilize the tray to administer drugs prescribed by their dental expert. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved tray distribution systems because they are similar to fluoride trays, commonly used to prevent tooth decay.
Get in touch with Wesley Yemoto DDS at 4860 Cherry Avenue #F, San Jose, CA 95118, or call (408) 266-9957 if you suspect you are suffering from either stage of periodontal disease.