When most people think about dental health, they picture cavity fillings, teeth cleanings, and maybe even whitening. But your gums are just as important as your teeth, without healthy gums and supporting bone, even the strongest teeth can’t survive.

That’s where periodontal treatment comes in. If your dentist has mentioned gum disease, or if you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, you may be wondering: “What is periodontal treatment, and what kinds of procedures does it involve?”

This guide covers the most common periodontal procedures, from non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing to advanced periodontal surgical procedures such as gum grafts and bone regeneration. By the end, you’ll understand how these treatments work, what to expect, and why they’re critical to protecting your smile.

What Is Periodontal Treatment?

Periodontal treatment is specialized dental care that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease (periodontitis) and related conditions. A periodontist, a dentist who has undergone additional years of training, performs these treatments.

While general dentists can manage early gum problems, moderate to severe cases often require the expertise of a periodontist. Periodontal treatment can range from deep cleanings to surgical procedures that restore lost gum and bone tissue.

Why Periodontal Treatment Matters

Periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. It begins as gingivitis (gum inflammation) and can progress to periodontitis, where bacteria destroy gum tissue and bone.

Without timely gum disease treatment, you may experience:

• Persistent bad breath
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Gum recession, making teeth look “longer”
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Tooth loss

Beyond your mouth, gum disease has been linked to serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and pregnancy complications. Treating gum disease doesn’t just save your teeth, it can also improve your overall health.

Common Non-Surgical Periodontal Procedures

Not all gum disease requires surgery. In fact, many patients respond well to non-surgical options.

1. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

The most common non-surgical gum disease treatment is scaling and root planing, often called a deep cleaning.

• Scaling: Removes plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from above and below the gumline.
• Root Planing: Smooths the roots of teeth, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and allowing gums to heal.

This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia for comfort. Depending on the severity, it may be done in one visit or divided into quadrants (sections of your mouth).

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing:

• Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
• Shrinks periodontal pockets
• Prevents progression of disease
• May reduce the need for surgery if done early

2. Local Antibiotic Therapy

Sometimes, after scaling and root planing, antibiotics are placed directly into periodontal pockets in gel or chip form. These medications reduce bacteria and inflammation, helping gums reattach to teeth.

Systemic antibiotics (pills) may also be prescribed for more widespread infection.

3. Periodontal Maintenance Therapy

After active treatment, most patients enter a maintenance phase. Instead of twice-yearly dental cleanings, you may need periodontal cleanings every 3–4 months.

These appointments focus on keeping bacteria under control and preventing the return of deep infection. Consistency here is critical, gum disease can return if not carefully managed.

Common Periodontal Surgical Procedures

When gum disease is more advanced, or when non-surgical options don’t provide enough improvement, a periodontal surgical procedure may be necessary.

1. Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)

When periodontal pockets (the spaces between teeth and gums) are too deep to clean with routine methods, flap surgery is often recommended.

• The gums are gently lifted back to allow deep cleaning of tartar and bacteria.
• The bone may be smoothed to remove irregular surfaces that harbor bacteria.
• The gums are repositioned and sutured to reduce pocket depth.

Benefits:

• Easier for you to clean teeth at home
• Reduces risk of tooth loss
• Stabilizes gum health

2. Gum Grafts

If gum recession has left roots exposed, a gum graft may be performed.

• Tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth (or a donor source) and attached to the receded area.
• This protects tooth roots, reduces sensitivity, and improves aesthetics.

Gum grafts not only restore a healthier gumline but also prevent further damage.

3. Bone Grafts

Advanced gum disease often destroys bone around teeth. Bone grafting rebuilds this structure, either to save teeth or to prepare for dental implants.

• Grafts can come from your own body, synthetic materials, or donor bone.
• Over time, new bone integrates with the graft, creating a strong foundation.

4. Guided Tissue Regeneration

This procedure stimulates the regrowth of bone and gum tissue lost to periodontitis.

• A biocompatible membrane is placed between bone and gum tissue.
• This membrane prevents the gum from growing into the bone space, allowing bone to regenerate naturally.

Guided tissue regeneration is often combined with bone grafting for maximum effectiveness.

5. Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening isn’t always related to gum disease; it’s sometimes performed for cosmetic or restorative purposes.

• Excess gum tissue (and sometimes bone) is removed to expose more of the natural tooth.
• This may be done to improve a “gummy smile” or to prepare teeth for crowns or fillings.

6. Dental Implants

While not always thought of as a “gum procedure,” dental implants are frequently placed by periodontists.

Once gum disease is treated and gum health is restored, implants can replace missing teeth with permanent, natural-looking results.

What to Expect During Periodontal Treatment

Every patient’s journey is unique, but here’s a general overview:

1. Consultation & Periodontal Exam – Includes gum measurements, X-rays, and a full gum disease evaluation.
2. Non-Surgical Treatment First – Most patients begin with scaling and root planing.
3. Surgical Options if Needed – If pockets remain deep or tissue is severely damaged, surgery may be recommended.
4. Ongoing Maintenance – Long-term cleanings and monitoring to prevent recurrence.

The process is collaborative, your periodontist will explain all options, expected outcomes, and timelines before beginning.

Preventing the Need for Periodontal Treatment

The best way to avoid complex procedures is prevention. You can protect your gums by:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing or using interdental brushes daily
• Avoiding tobacco use
• Eating a balanced diet to strengthen immunity
• Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Seeking early evaluation at the first sign of gum problems

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Smile with Periodontal Care

So, what is periodontal treatment? It’s the full spectrum of care designed to prevent, treat, and manage gum disease, ranging from scaling and root planing to advanced periodontal surgical procedures.

If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth, don’t wait. Gum disease is treatable, but the earlier it’s addressed, the better your results.

Call to Action

At CharlottePerio, our board-certified periodontists specialize in comprehensive gum disease treatment, from non-surgical deep cleanings to advanced surgical procedures. We combine expertise with compassionate care to restore your smile and protect your overall health.

Call CharlottePerio today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward healthier gums.