Treatment Overview

A simple procedure called root planing and scaling is essentially performed to scrape plaque and other harmful deposits from your teeth. This makes it harder for plaque to stick to the teeth. If simple removal of all the plaque and tartar from the roots of your teeth doesn't remove the cause or threat of gum disease, there are many treatment options, including surgical and non-surgical.

Treatment choices include:

• Root planing and scaling, which is one of the most effective ways to treat gum disease before it becomes severe. You must brush and floss daily after root planing and scaling
• Gingival curettage, which removes the inner lining of the gums if they become damaged or infected
• Splinting, which uses wire to secure loose teeth to one another to make them more stable
• Gingivectomy
• Pocket reduction/flap procedures
• Soft tissue grafts, including: free gingival grafts, which move healthy gum tissue from one part of the mouth to another, and pedical grafts, which shift gums to cover areas where healthy tissue is needed
• Guided tissue regeneration, which places a special lining between the gums and bone. The lining helps bone grow back and helps the gums reattach to the bone
• Crown lengthening
• Implants
• Cosmetic surgery