Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that penetrates into the gums and into the bone around your teeth, causing inflammation. Periodontal inflammation leads to bone loss and possibly tooth loss and may contribute to other medical conditions.

The periodontal infection must be removed and the area given a chance to heal. There are generally two levels of treatment for this condition depending upon the severity of your infection.

Debridement

Debridement is the removal of large amounts of plaque and tartar from the teeth. It is needed when there is an excessive build up, usually when the individual has not seen a dentist for some years.

During the procedure, Dr. Fergusson will use a combination of hand tools and ultrasonic devices to dislodge the plaque and tartar from underneath the gum-line. Lastly, some hydrogen-peroxide is used to clean the area.

Debridement is often the first step in treating periodontal disease. After completion, Dr. Fergusson will re-evaluate your mouth and determine a course of treatment.

Scaling and Root Planing

The upper level of infection in the pockets around your teeth can be removed using specialized instruments. This procedure is called, “Scaling and Root Planing," “Phase One Treatment" or “Initial Therapy." It is done under local anesthesia and is a careful cleaning of the root surfaces to remove plaque and calculus [tartar] from deep periodontal pockets and to smooth the tooth root to remove bacterial toxins.