Scaling is removing the calculus (tartar) deposits from your teeth. Root planing is the smoothing of the root surfaces so that the gum tissue can reattach to the tooth. This procedure is usually done in one or two appointments under local anesthetic.

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When recession of the gingiva occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When gum recession is a problem gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option.

When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost.

In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as an unsightly appearance to the gum and tooth. Also, gum recession, when significant, can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries and root gouging.

A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, or gently moved over from adjacent areas, to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root.
The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable and results in a stable healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.

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The main cause of periodontal disease is the bacteria in the form of plaque that constantly form on the teeth. As the disease progresses deep "pockets" form providing a larger space for the bacteria to live. Dr. Flores and Vaughn may recommend a procedure to decrease pocket depths when the pockets get too deep to clean with daily at-home oral hygiene and a professional care routine.

During this procedure the gums are gently pushed away from the teeth, creating a flap and allowing access to the infected pocket. Deep deposits of plaque and tartar can then be removed. In some cases, irregular surfaces of the damaged bone are smoothed to limit areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide. This also allows the gum tissue to better reattach to healthy bone. Little or no gum tissue is removed.

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The main cause of periodontal disease is bacteria in the form of sticky, colourless plaque that forms on your teeth. However, many factors can cause periodontal disease or influence its progression. Your bone and gum tissue should fit snugly around your teeth like a turtleneck around your neck. When you have periodontal disease, this supporting tissue and bone is destroyed and pockets develop. Eventually, too much bone is lost, and the teeth need to be extracted. A regenerative procedure can reverse some of the damaged bone that supports your teeth by regenerating lost bone and tissue.

During this procedure, the gum tissue is folded back and the disease-causing bacteria is removed. Membranes (filters), bone grafts or tissue-stimulating proteins can be used to encourage your body's natural ability to regenerate bone and tissue. There are many options to enhance support for your teeth and to restore your bone to a healthy level.

Eliminating existing bacteria and regenerating bone and tissue helps to reduce pocket depth and repair damage caused by the progression of periodontal disease. With a combination of daily oral hygiene and professional care, you will increase the chances of keeping your natural teeth - and decrease the chances of serious health problems associated with periodontal disease.

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Periodontal disease can be a chronic condition. That`s why it requires ongoing care and monitoring to keep it under control. Therefore regular maintenance visits, which include dental exams and cleanings, are very important. The scheduling of these visits depends on the rate of plaque and tartar buildup. It also depends on your response to treatment and your commitment to home care. Make home care a regular habit to reduce plaque buildup.

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