Non-surgical gum treatments provide a deep clean above and below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar and are less invasive than surgical treatments.
Non-surgical gum treatments provide a deep clean above and below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar and are less invasive than surgical treatments.
Non-surgical gum treatments can include:
Surgical gum treatments can include:
In some patients, the nonsurgical procedure of scaling and root planning is all that is needed to treat gum diseases. Surgery is needed when the tissue around the teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with nonsurgical options.
All treatments are subject to the individual practice.
Gum disease is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky, bacterial film that constantly forms on your teeth. When plaque isn't thoroughly removed through daily brushing and flossing, it reacts with the sugars in your food to produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gum tissue. Over time, this film can harden into tartar, a stubborn substance that traps bacteria against the gumline and can only be removed during a professional dental cleaning.
If this inflammation goes unchecked, it can progress from mild gingivitis to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth and the supporting bone begins to erode. While oral hygiene is the most critical factor, other elements such as smoking, genetics, and health conditions like diabetes can significantly increase your risk by weakening your body's ability to fight off infection. Noticing red, swollen, or bleeding gums is the primary warning sign that your mouth needs professional attention to prevent permanent damage.
