Periodontology

Periodontal disease is an infection that affects the tissue surrounding the teeth, including the gums and the tissue that is located between the teeth and the supporting bone. In the worst-case scenario, periodontal disease can result in the loss of teeth. The disease, however, occurs slowly and does not cause pain, meaning most adults who suffer from the affliction are unaware of any problems.

Treatment

The main cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of bacterial plaque under the gum line. Plaque forms constantly and must be removed regularly to maintain oral health. Bacteria, meanwhile, results in tartar that inflames the gums and ultimately causes periodontal disease.

Periodontal scaling is a procedure to remove the build-up of tartar and plaque from the surface of the tooth root. After patients undergo local anaesthetic, the periodontist scales the plaque and tartar from below the gum line using hand-held instruments or ultrasonic vibrating instruments.

If necessary, this procedure can be performed repeatedly, although the procedure is ineffective if patients do not look after their teeth with regular cleaning.