Periodontal Therapy
Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a common infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the tooth. Without treatment, the bone around the teeth is slowly and progressively lost. The name “periodontitis” means “inflammation around the tooth.” Microorganisms, such as bacteria, stick to the surface of the tooth and in the pockets surrounding the tooth, and they multiply. As the immune system reacts and toxins are released, inflammation occurs.
Untreated periodontitis will eventually result in tooth loss. It may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other health problems.
Bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless membrane that develops over the surface of teeth, is the most common cause of periodontal disease. If this plaque is not removed, it can harden to form tartar, or calculus.
It is important to remove plaque and calculus to restore periodontal health. Dr. Razavi will carry out scaling and root planing to clean below the gumline. This is done using an ultrasonic device that breaks up the plaque and calculus. Root planing is done to smooth rough areas on the roots of the teeth. Bacteria can lodge within the rough patches, increasing the risk of gum disease. Once your procedure is completed, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home, and visit Dr. Razavi for your maintenance appointments as recommended.
