Treatment methods depend on the type of gum disease present and its severity. In most cases, initial therapy consists of a thorough deep cleaning above and below the gums (scaling and root planing). With some forms of gum disease antibiotics may be used in conjunction with the scaling and root planing.
Many times, the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy. Even in severe cases, non-surgical periodontal therapy often precedes surgical therapy. This is done to improve the overall tissue quality prior to surgery, and also to help limit the areas requiring surgery. When more advanced disease is present, and deep pockets exist between the teeth and gums, surgery may be recommended. We are very conservative in our treatment recommendations, and limit surgery to the areas where it is absolutely necessary.