Perio Therapy

When do I need periodontal therapy?

Keeping the smile healthy is critical to ensuring a lifetime of beautiful teeth, and certain conditions that can develop can cause serious and irreversible damage to the teeth and gums. This condition, known as periodontal disease, is completely avoidable with proper care of the smile. Many patients who visit Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli of Sacramento, California’s Arden Park Dental Care, may have questions about this condition, including “Can periodontal disease be cured?”

Understanding the condition known as periodontal disease

First, having a complete understanding of periodontal disease can help patients understand how to notice and address it as soon as it develops to reduce the risk of permanent, full-mouth damage. Periodontal disease, also referred to by dentists and patients as gum disease, is best described by Dr. Formoli as a chronic infection caused by bacteria in the mouth that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is one of the most common dental problems worldwide, often leading to more serious oral health issues if left untreated. It starts as gingivitis, a mild infection that can develop into periodontitis, the later stages, without proper treatment.

Can periodontal disease be cured?

One question many people have about periodontal disease is whether it can be cured. The short answer is no. Periodontal disease cannot be cured, though it can be effectively managed with proper oral hygiene habits and regular visits to our office for cleanings and evaluations. The goal of treatment is to control the actual infection and prevent any further damage to the teeth and gums, and with the help of our team, many patients can manage their condition effectively or focus on the prevention of gum disease.

Treatment options for periodontal disease at Arden Park Dental Care

There are a number of treatment options available for patients with periodontal disease, depending on the severity of the condition. These include:

• Non-surgical periodontal therapy like scaling and root planing. This may be performed manually or as a laser gum treatment. These treatments involve the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth and smoothing out any rough areas on the tooth roots to eliminate and prevent bacteria buildup.
• Surgical options like gum grafts or flap surgery. These are often required for more advanced cases where significant gum tissue damage occurs.
• Ongoing periodontal maintenance and care. Patients diagnosed with periodontal disease will have it for life, so working with an experienced dentist to manage the condition and prevent future flare-ups is critical to maintaining a healthy smile.

Schedule an appointment today!

If you reside in Sacramento, California, and want to learn more about periodontal disease, call (916) 280-0988 to request an appointment with Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli at 4360 Arden Way, Suite #3.