Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis) is a condition characterized by infection and inflammation in the supporting soft tissues around the teeth which can ultimately spread to the tooth and jawbone in advanced cases.

Periodontal disease starts when the toxins present in plaque begin to irritate the gum tissue, leading to inflammation. This stage of the infection is known as gingivitis. It progresses and colonizes in the space between the teeth and gums, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating gaps known as periodontal pockets. These pockets become home to tartar, bacteria and plaque. If still left untreated, the condition can progress and damage the jawbone and connective tissue, and eventually cause tooth loss.

Scaling and Root Planing

The treatment for periodontal disease depends upon what stage the infection is at and how much damage has been caused.

Scaling and root planing is a special, non-surgical procedure for the treatment of gum disease. It is a deep cleaning treatment usually done on one quadrant of the mouth at a time. Scaling involves the removal of plaque, tartar and toxins from above and below the gum line. After this, the rough spots on the surfaces of the roots are smoothed out. This part of the treatment is called root planing. The procedure helps to control the progression of gum disease and allows the pockets to shrink so that the gums can heal and reattach to the teeth.

Periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults and should be treated promptly. If you are experiencing any signs of this condition, please contact our office for a consultation without delay. We are conveniently located at 3224 George Washington Memorial Hwy., Hayes, VA 23072.