Scaling & Root Planing in Houston, TX

In our Houston and The Woodland, TX dental offices we offer state-of-the-art treatments for patient exhibiting signs of periodontal disease in all stages. Periodontal disease, one of the most common dental diseases, is a condition that affects the gums and surrounding areas of teeth. Also called gum disease, periodontal disease occurs when bacteria (plaque) attacks oral tissue. If untreated the gum tissue may become inflamed (gingivitis), resulting in bone loss (periodontitis) and possibly tooth loss. Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) is usually the first warning sign of periodontal disease. The gum tissue appears reddish in color and is sensitive to touch. Patients with gingivitis may bleed when brushing or flossing, a problem that can occur even when gently cleaning teeth. In general, healthy gums don’t bleed under the normal pressures of brushing, so this should be considered a sign of declining periodontal health. As the illness advances the gum tissue recedes, revealing delicate root areas that are sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure. Eating may become difficult for patients with periodontal disease as pockets begin to form around teeth, a result of retracting gum tissue. Bone loss, pus pockets, and discharge from inflamed gums are all serious warning signs of periodontal disease.

If you should have periodontal disease, here are a few things our Cosmetic Dentists at the Texas Center for Cosmetic Dentistry may recommend:

• Daily removal of plaque with adequate brushing and flossing
• Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or changing diet
• Routine dental checkups and scaling (mechanical cleaning) by a dentist
• Bite therapy to address complications from loose teeth
• Surgery (when noninvasive techniques are not effective)

There is a wide array of treatment options for periodontal disease to help ensure that each patient receives the proper care. We offer:

Scaling and Root Planing
One of the more common forms of treatment used is a nonsurgical procedure known as scaling and root planning. Scaling removes tarter and plaque from the area below the gum line while root planning creates a smoother root and gum surface. We use the NV Microlaser for this treatment.

OralDNA® Testing
We can test our patients with the OralDNA testing to find out what pathogens can trigger gum disease specifically for you. This can help us identify and treat your periodontal condition.

Arestin Placement
Antibiotics may also be used to help alleviate pain and inflammation. Arestin (minocycline HCl) is an antibiotic placed inside the pocket of your infected gum.

The time investment for treating gum disease will vary based on the severity of the disease and the treatment used. Patients can discuss treatment options during their consultation to receive information on how many visits.

Poor oral health, diabetes, and smoking may increase your chance of developing periodontal disease. Other factors that may lead to gum disease include genetics, poor diet (i.e. eating foods that contain bacteria), and complications associated with bite problems. 

Many researchers have been studying the link between overall health and periodontal health. Stress, whether physical or emotional, affects the immune system’s ability to fight off bacteria – a problem that when paired with bad oral hygiene may increase the risk of periodontal disease.

The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to maintain regular oral hygiene. Although there are other methods to stop and even eliminate gum disease, periodontists (specialists that study periodontal disease) recommend brushing your teeth daily to reduce the buildup of plaque, the bacteria-rich organism responsible for causing periodontal disease.

The dentist may suggest scheduling more frequent check-ups and examinations, as well as bi-annual cleanings. Patients should also implement common oral care practices into their routines such as flossing, brushing twice a day, and using mouthwash.

We provide laser periodontal treatment, which allows us to eliminate periodontal tissue while minimizing discomfort to the patient. We also do Oral DNA testing to help patients identify pathogens in their mouth that lead to chronic inflammation and periodontitis. Call and schedule a consultation for our periodontal treatments today. Your gum health is important to us, too!