Scaling and root planning is a non-surgical treatment which is basically a meticulous deep cleaning of the plaque and tartar (calculus) present on the tooth surface above the gum line and the root surface below the gum line. This periodontal treatment is done under local anesthesia (Novocain).

We also use medicated antibiotic gels (Atridox) and powders (Arestin) that are inserted under the gum line when treating isolated deep pockets. The gum disease treatment antibiotics are slowly released into the gum and pocket over a period of seven days.

If you’re diagnosed with periodontal disease, your periodontist may recommend periodontal surgery. Periodontal surgery is necessary when your periodontist determines that the tissue around your teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with non-surgical periodontal disease treatment. Following are the four types of surgical treatments most commonly prescribed:

• Pocket Reduction Procedures
• Regenerative Procedures (Bone Grafts and Guided Tissue Regeneration)
• Crown Lengthening
• Soft Tissue Grafts