Initial Periodontal Therapy Root scraping and smoothing involves thoroughly cleaning root surfaces to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria. It also involves smoothing root surfaces to prevent recurrent build-up and allow the gum (gum tissue) to be reinserted. There are a variety of ways in which periodontists can treat periodontal disease. After dental school, periodontists receive up to three additional years of specialized training in surgical and non-surgical periodontal procedures to treat gum disease.
Periodontists are also experts at replacing missing teeth with dental implants. The treatment may be performed by a periodontist, a dentist, or a dental hygienist. The goal of periodontitis treatment is to thoroughly clean the pockets around the teeth and prevent damage to the surrounding bone. The best chances of successful treatment are to adopt a daily routine of good oral care, manage health conditions that may affect dental health, and stop using tobacco.
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called root scraping and smoothing (deep cleaning) will be recommended. Usually, one quadrant of the mouth is made at a time while the area is numb. This procedure removes tartar, plaque and toxins from the top and bottom of the gum line (peeling) and smoothes rough spots on the surface of the roots (smoothing). This procedure helps heal gum tissue and reduce pouches.
Medications, mouthwashes with special medications, and an electric toothbrush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.
