What Is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy refers to the range of treatments used to manage, control, and treat gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth, and it is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. At Wayne Hills Dental in Wayne, NJ, we provide thorough periodontal evaluations and a variety of evidence-based treatments to help patients restore the health of their gums and protect their smiles for years to come.
Stages of Gum Disease
Periodontal Treatments
The cornerstone of periodontal therapy is a non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planing, often referred to as a deep cleaning. During scaling, Dr. Matalkah, Dr. Khater, or our hygiene team carefully removes plaque and tartar deposits from below the gumline where routine cleaning cannot reach. Root planing smooths the root surfaces, making it more difficult for bacteria to reattach and promoting the reattachment of gum tissue to the tooth.
For patients with more advanced disease, additional treatments may include antibiotic therapy applied directly to the periodontal pockets, laser-assisted periodontal treatment to eliminate infected tissue, and surgical procedures to reduce pocket depths or regenerate lost bone. Following active periodontal treatment, patients are typically placed on a more frequent maintenance schedule, every three to four months, to monitor healing and prevent recurrence. Drs. Matalkah and Khater work with each patient in Wayne, NJ, to develop a personalized periodontal care plan.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Several factors can increase a person’s susceptibility to developing gum disease. Tobacco use in any form is one of the most significant risk factors; smokers are far more likely to develop periodontitis than non-smokers and tend to respond less well to treatment. Diabetes, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause, certain medications, genetic predisposition, and a diet high in sugar and processed foods can all contribute to the development of gum disease. Stress weakens the immune system and can impair the body’s ability to fight off periodontal bacteria. Patients in Wayne, NJ, with one or more of these risk factors are encouraged to schedule a periodontal evaluation at our dental office so that any early signs of gum disease can be identified and addressed promptly.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? Schedule your appointment with Dr. Asmahan Khater or Dr. Hammah Matalkah today! You can fill out our convenient online Appointment Request Form or call our office at (973) 845-6133. Our friendly team is here to help you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile.
