Gum Disease Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. When plaque is not effectively removed from teeth every day, the bacteria in the plaque are given the opportunity to flourish. Some bacteria live in harmony with our bodies and some do not. If an aggressive microorganism is present, periodontal disease can result. Oftentimes, symptoms will go unnoticed except by a dental professional. Root Planing and Scaling Root planing is a meticulous debridement of the root surface to obtain a biologically acceptable surface for gum tissue reattachment. The latest research shows that the placement of an antibiotic in the pockets immediately following root planing yields the best result, so this is what we practice. In some cases of severe periodontal disease, it is necessary to refer patients to the care of a specialist, called a periodontist. Periodontal Maintenance In most cases, the present infection is brought under control following treatment with root planing or, in some cases, surgery. The bacteria responsible for the infection, however, are still present and always will be. The important factor is to not give the bacteria the opportunity to overgrow and infect the tissue again. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, "Following a course of active periodontal treatment, a three-month time interval for periodontal maintenance therapy remains the most generally accepted." The majority of clinical studies have shown that three months is the most effective in controlling disease. Three-month follow-up visits will be recommended indefinably. Sometime when stability is maintained through several follow-up visits, this can be stretched to four-month or even six-month intervals. This is determined on an individual basis, with all contributing factors being evaluated. |
Dr. Douglas P. Allison ~ Dr. Scott E. Zak ~ 1415 N. 8th Street ~ Manitowoc, WI 54220 ~ Phone: 920.684.9685 ~ Fax: 920.684.4895
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