Gum Disease Treatment FAQ
Not everyone out there needs gum disease treatment. If you only have gingivitis, for example, that can typically be reversed with daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings every 6 months. It’s when gingivitis is left to progress that our Ann Arbor dentists will recommend a procedure known as scaling and root planing.
To learn more about periodontal therapy and who needs it most, here’s a list of commonly asked questions we often hear from patients.
What Is Gum Disease Treatment?
Gum disease treatments are designed to manage, you guessed it, gum disease and prevent further damage to your smile. For patients with moderate to advanced infection, this often includes non-surgical gum disease treatments like scaling and root planing. The goal is to remove harmful bacteria below the gumline and help the gums heal.
What Is Scaling & Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning that targets plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gums. During the scaling and root planing procedure, one of our local family dentists or hygienists will carefully clean the tooth roots and smooth out their surfaces. This helps the gums reattach to the teeth and reduces pockets where bacteria can grow.
Who Needs Treatment for Gum Disease?
Patients diagnosed with periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease, are strong candidates for treatment. Signs include bleeding gums, gum recession, bad breath, and loose teeth. A proper gum disease evaluation inside our Ann Arbor, MI, dental office will determine the severity and whether scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or a combination of the two is the right approach.
Is Scaling & Root Planing Painful?
Most patients tolerate scaling and root planing for gum disease well. Local anesthesia is typically used to keep you comfortable during this . Afterward, you may experience mild sensitivity or soreness for a few days, but this usually resolves quickly with the help of over-the-counter pain relievers.
How Effective Are Periodontal Disease Treatments?
When performed early enough, periodontal disease treatments can stop the progression of infection and significantly improve gum health. While it may not reverse all damage, it can stabilize your condition and help you keep your natural teeth longer. Professional gum disease treatment combined with good at-home care makes a big difference.
How Long Does the Healing Process Take?
Healing times vary, but most patients are able to go back to their normal routine the same day as scaling and root planing is not as invasive as other types of treatment. There are no incisions or stitches required and our dentists will provide aftercare instructions so your healing can go as planned.
Are There Alternatives to Scaling & Root Planing?
For advanced cases, certain surgical periodontal treatments may be recommended. However, scaling and root planing is often the first step and one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for gum disease available. It is less invasive and can often prevent the need for surgery if done in time.
What Happens After Periodontal Therapy?
After treatment, ongoing care is essential. visits are scheduled more frequently than regular cleanings to keep bacteria under control. These visits help protect the results of scaling and root planing and prevent the infection from returning.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease From Coming Back?
While gum disease is technically a non-reversible, chronic condition, good daily oral hygiene habits are still key. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and keeping up with professional teeth cleanings all support long-term health. Following the recommendations from our dentists after your scaling and root planing procedure will help maintain your results and reduce the risk of future issues.
Make an Appointment
Think you might need help with gum disease? Our dentists in Ann Arbor, MI, can take a closer look and make an official diagnosis before developing a custom treatment plan. Call Liberty Dental today at (734) 994-0909 or contact us online to request an appointment.