Periodontal disease is an infectious and inflammatory disease which destroys 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 three out of four 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 there is little, if any pain; therefore you may not notice the gradual onset of puffiness and occasional bleeding. Without thorough removal, toxins from plaque cause the disease process to continue. Periodontal disease left untreated may result in extensive bone destruction and possible tooth loss.
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 treatments to eliminate infection, make recommendations to help you more effectively clean your teeth daily, and guide you through our efforts to achieve and maintain oral health.
Root planing is the treatment of diseased root surfaces below the gumline. A routine prophy (cleaning) emphasizes cleaning the teeth above the gumline in a generally healthy mouth. Root planing focuses on eliminating tarter and plaque below the gum and detoxifying the root surfaces where the disease occurs. Obtaining smooth roots and flushing out the pockets allows for healthy reattachment of the gums to the root surfaces.
What do we hope to accomplish with Soft Tissue Management?
Gums that do not bleed. Healthy gums do not bleed!
Fresher breathe and taste
Gums that are not red, swollen 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 your dentist
Thoroughly cleaning all tooth surfaces two times a day
