Periodontal treatment and maintenance

Severe gum disease is known as periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic gum infection resulting from heavy plaque and calculus deposits, which cause deep periodontal pockets. Severe inflammation and bleeding of the gums are present, along with attachment and bone loss. As periodontitis progresses, the teeth affected will become loose. Scaling and root planing or a “deep cleaning” is the appropriate treatment, either in a localized area or full mouth. Antibiotics may be necessary to treat deep periodontal pockets in addition to scaling and root planing. Periodontal maintenance appointments are recommended every 3-4 months thereafter to stabilize the progression of periodontitis. Some advanced cases of periodontitis may require referral to a specialist (periodontist) for additional treatment.