Periodontal Care![]() Scaling and Root PlaningThe deep cleaning process for periodontitis involves two procedures known as scaling and root planing. In scaling, Dr. Gregory J. Gorman, DMD will remove plaque and tartar in the area near each periodontal pocket. Root planing has us smooth out (or plane) the teeth's root surfaces so that gum tissue can regenerate and reattach itself to your teeth. Dental AppointmentsIf you have periodontitis, you will need more dental appointments than other patients, but as treatment progresses, you will need fewer of them. Gum disease causes problems such as pockets that prevent you from cleaning plaque off your teeth. After determining the specifics of your condition, Dr. Gregory J. Gorman, DMD will prescribe a treatment plan and care schedule based on your needs. When your gums return to optimum health, he will alter your care schedule based on the results from your clinical evaluations. MedicationDr. Gregory J. Gorman, DMD may prescribe special medications for you, often in the form of a pill, mouthrinse or a medicine placed into the pocket following a deep-cleaning. These medications will keep the pain and infection under control or aid the healing process of your gums. If we give you any medications, make sure you follow our instructions carefully. Healing PeriodFollowing treatment, your teeth and gums may feel more sensitive than usual. Many patients report not cleaning their teeth during this period due to soreness, but you must follow our instructions. Root decay can develop if plaque remains on your teeth. We have options to reduce tooth sensitivity, such as special toothpaste and other treatments like root canal therapy, if this is a concern for you. Home CareWhether or not you have had gum disease, it is imperative to brush and floss your teeth twice a day. This is even more important during the recovery period. We recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles for two minutes twice each day. Make sure you clean in between your teeth daily to get rid of plaque and food debris that may collect in between your teeth. You may need to use picks, wider kinds of floss, or small special brushes to clean between your teeth if your gums have receded from your teeth. Dr. Gregory J. Gorman, DMD may also suggest a mouth rinse for you to use regularly. If patients have severe tooth decay we may need to place a crown over the tooth for protection. Tobacco UsageWe encourage our patients to refrain from using tobacco products. If you smoke, chew, vape, or dip, you are at an increased risk for diseases like cancer. Tobacco also worsens gum disease and makes treating it more difficult. We can conduct a oral cancer screening to detect cancer. Ask Dr. Gregory J. Gorman, DMD for guidance on how to quit. For more information, please contact our office at (970) 812-3959. |