Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth.

Periodontal disease attacks just below the gum line in the shallow v-shaped crevice called a sulcus between the tooth and gums, where they cause the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket. Generally, the more severe the disease, the greater depth of the pocket.

Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed.

The first non-surgical step usually involves a special cleaning, called scaling and root planning, to remove plaque and tartar deposits on the tooth and root surfaces. This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and periodontal pockets to shrink. This is sometimes referred to as “periodontal” or “deep cleaning.” A local anesthetic may be used to make you more comfortable. And the treatment may be scheduled for one or more visits.

If pockets do not heal after scaling and root planning, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce the depth of the pockets to make them easier to keep clean.

If you have had a deep cleaning (scaling and root planning), the regular cleanings that will be recommended to you after those treatments are called periodontal maintenance therapy. The cleanings will help keep you at that healthier level.

You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. Brush, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of health smiles.