What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infectious and inflammatory disease which destroys the periodontal tissues. These tissues consist of the gums and the bone that support the teeth. It is a gum and bone disease. Periodontal disease affects 3 out of 4 adults. It is caused by a growing colony of living bacteria called plaque. The greatest cause of adult tooth loss is periodontal disease.
In the early stages of periodontal disease their is little, if any, pain: therefore you may not notice the gradual onset of puffiness and occasional bleeding. Without thorough removal, toxins from the plaque will cause the disease process to continue. Periodontal disease if left untreated may result in extensive bone destruction and possible tooth loss. If detected in the early stages, periodontal disease can be treated and controlled.
What is Soft Tissue Management®?
Soft Tissue Management® is an individualized plan to eliminate infection of the gums and root surfaces. An appropriate plan will be chosen by your dentist, hygienist and you. The hygienist will perform the treatment to help eliminate infection, make recommendations to help you more effectively clean your teeth daily, and guide you through our efforts to achieve an maintain oral health.
What is Root Planning
Root planning is the treatment of the diseased root surfaces below the gumline. A routine prophy (cleaning) emphasizes cleaning the teeth above the gumline in a generally healthy mouth. Root planning focuses on eliminating tartar and plaque below the gumline and detoxifying the root surfaces when the disease occurs. Obtaining clean roots and flushing out the pockets allow for healthy reattachment of the gums to the root surfaces.
What do we hope to accomplish with Soft Tissue Management® Program?
- Gums that do not bleed
- Fresher breath and taste
- Gums that are not swollen, red or tender
- Knowing how to effectively maintain good oral hygiene
- Reduced pocket depths
- Control of Periodontal Disease
What do we need from YOU, the patient, to make this treatment a success?
- Completion of the periodontal therapy prescribed by the dentist
- Thoroughly cleaning all tooth surfaces two times a day
- Maintenance of regular recare visits
