More Than Just a Deep Clean: Understanding Periodontal Disease Treatment

Key Takeaways

• Periodontal disease treatment aims to stop infection, protect gum tissue and prevent further loss of bone.
• You can often manage early-stage gum disease with non-surgical treatments.
• Advanced periodontal disease may require deeper cleaning or surgical care.
• Consistent follow-up is just as important as the treatment itself.
• Acting early improves comfort, outcomes, and long-term oral health.
  

You brush your teeth, spit into the sink, and see a swirl of pink. You tell yourself, "I just brushed too hard." But deep down, you know that healthy gums shouldn't bleed.

It is easy to ignore these little signs. Maybe your gums look a bit redder than usual, or maybe you have noticed your teeth look a little "longer" than they used to. These aren't just cosmetic issues; they are alarm bells.

At Clove Dental, we understand that hearing the words "gum disease" can be scary. You might picture painful scraping or losing your teeth. We are here to change that narrative. Modern periodontal disease treatment is gentle, effective, and the absolute best investment you can make for your overall health. Since we have already talked about prevention and insurance in our previous posts, today we are going to dive into what actually happens when you sit in the chair to fix the problem.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. It begins when plaque and bacteria build up along the gumline. Over time, this buildup causes inflammation, leading to gum damage and, in advanced stages, bone loss.

Because the progression is usually slow and painless, many people don’t realise they have a problem until the disease has already advanced.

Why Periodontal Disease Treatment Is Important

Healthy gums hold teeth firmly in place and protect the jawbone. When periodontal disease is left untreated, it can lead to:

• Gum recession
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Bone loss
• Tooth loss

Treatment isn’t just about saving teeth. It also helps control infection, improve oral comfort, and reduce the risk of recurring inflammation.

Periodontal Disease Treatment Options Explained

1. Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

The first step in fixing gum problems is cleaning your teeth. A dentist will take away hard stuff called plaque and tartar from below your gums and make the tooth roots smooth. This helps your gums stick back to your teeth. Cleaning also helps your gums get better over time.

2. Medication and Localised Therapy

In some cases, medications are used to control infection. These may include antimicrobial rinses or gels placed directly into gum pockets. Medication supports healing but usually works best alongside professional cleaning.

3. Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance

After your first treatment, return for check-ups. Visiting the dentist keeps your gums healthy and prevents problems from arising. It’s really important for taking care of your teeth and gums.

4. Surgical Treatment for Advanced Disease

When gum disease is severe, non-surgical treatments may not be enough. Surgery helps fix problems with gums. It can make deep pockets smaller, clean out infections, and heal damaged areas. Doctors only suggest surgery when it's really needed and plan it based on how bad the damage is.

What to Expect During Treatment

Most gum treatments are done with a local numbing shot so you don’t feel pain. After the treatment, you might have a little soreness, but it will go away soon.

How fast you get better depends on how healthy your gums are and how well you take care of them. Many people feel that their gums hurt less and don’t bleed as much after a few weeks.

The Role of Daily Care in Treatment Success

Professional care alone isn’t enough. Daily habits strongly influence outcomes.

• Brush your teeth two times a day.
• Use floss or a special brush to clean between your teeth.
• Avoiding tobacco products.
• Attending scheduled maintenance visits.

Why Professional Guidance Makes a Difference?

Gum disease can still be a problem, even if your gums look fine. It's important to watch it closely.

At Clove Dental, we help people take care of their gums for a long time. We focus on fighting germs and keeping gums healthy. We also remind patients to come back for check-ups and give them clear steps to follow.

Can Periodontal Disease Be Fully Cured?

You can fix early gum problems, but you can’t fully cure severe gum disease. With the right care, you can keep it from getting worse.

The main goal of treating gum disease is to keep your gums healthy and your teeth strong for a long time.

Conclusion

Periodontal disease is progressive, but it is also manageable. Understanding your periodontal disease treatment options helps you act before small issues turn into permanent damage.

You can keep your gums healthy by taking care of them, brushing every day, and visiting the dentist. This helps keep your smile bright and healthy.

FAQs

How much does periodontal disease treatment cost?

The cost can vary a lot based on how severe the issue is. A deep cleaning (SRP) costs more than a regular cleaning but less than surgery. Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of periodontal treatment because it is considered medically necessary.

Is gum disease contagious?

Technically, the bacteria that cause gum disease can be spread through saliva (kissing or sharing utensils). However, whether you develop the disease depends on your own immune system and oral hygiene habits.

How long does a deep cleaning take?

It typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour per quadrant (quarter of the mouth). Many patients choose to do one half of the mouth at a time over two visits.

Can I lose my teeth if I don't treat it?

Yes. Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. As the bone dissolves, the teeth become loose and eventually fall out or need to be extracted.

What is the difference between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis is the early stage (gum inflammation) and is reversible with good brushing and floss. Periodontitis is the advanced stage where bone loss occurs, and it requires professional periodontal disease treatment to manage.

Can a general dentist treat this, or do I need a specialist?

General dentists can handle early to moderate cases, including deep cleanings. For severe or complex cases, we may refer you to a Periodontist (a gum specialist) within our network to ensure you get the best outcome.