The Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy Guide: The Best Treatments

Most of us hope to avoid surgical procedures of any kind. This is certainly the case when it comes to our oral health as well. Fortunately, non-surgical periodontal therapy offers effective alternatives to address gum disease without invasive measures. If you need a periodontist in Utah, we have offices in Salt Lake City and South Jordan and offer competitive pricing! Our offices are conveniently located near Bountiful, West Valley, Herriman, Sandy, Draper, and Lehi.

What is Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy? 

Managing gum disease doesn’t always mean facing surgery. Non-surgical periodontal therapy emphasizes prevention and early intervention to keep your gums healthy. By maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing issues promptly, many people can effectively manage their gum health without needing surgical procedures. Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring and maintaining periodontal health, helping to prevent the progression of gum disease. 

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease 

Periodontal disease often progresses silently, making early detection that much more important. Beyond the well-known symptoms of tender or bleeding gums, here are some additional signs to watch for: 

1. Persistent Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Continuous bad breath or a lingering bad taste can indicate bacteria accumulation due to gum disease. 
2. Formation of Pus Between Teeth and Gums: The presence of pus is a clear sign of infection, suggesting that periodontal disease has advanced. 
3. Changes in Bite Alignment: Shifts in how your teeth fit together when biting down may result from underlying gum issues affecting tooth stability.
4. Development of Deep Pockets Between Teeth and Gums: As gums recede, spaces can form, trapping food and bacteria, which exacerbates the condition.

Different Types of Treatment 

Here are some common non-surgical therapies: 

• Specialist Debridement: Specialist debridement, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical procedure aimed at thoroughly cleaning the teeth to treat gum disease. This process involves removing plaque and calculus (tartar) deposits from both above and below the gumline, ensuring a clean surface that promotes healing and reattachment of the gums to the teeth. 

• Antimicrobial Treatments: Antimicrobial treatments for periodontal disease include various approaches to control bacterial growth. Medicated mouthwashes containing antiseptic agents like chlorhexidine gluconate help reduce plaque formation. Locally applied antibiotics, such as minocycline or doxycycline gels, can be administered directly into periodontal pockets to combat infections more effectively. 
• Systemic Antimicrobials Systemic antibiotics are oral medications prescribed alongside non-surgical therapies, like scaling and root planing, to enhance treatment outcomes. Combining antibiotics with mechanical debridement has shown additional clinical improvements compared to mechanical debridement alone. Your dentist will assess your specific condition and medical history to determine if incorporating antibiotics into your periodontal therapy is appropriate for you. 
• Tray Delivery Systems: Tray delivery systems, such as Perio Protect, offer a non-invasive method to manage periodontal disease by delivering medication directly into periodontal pockets. These custom-fit trays ensure that antimicrobial agents reach areas beyond the reach of standard brushing and flossing, effectively reducing bacterial infections and promoting gum healing. Patients typically use these trays at home for a few minutes daily, providing a convenient and effective adjunct to professional dental care. 
• Laser Therapy: Laser therapy offers a minimally invasive approach to treating periodontal disease by precisely targeting and removing inflamed gum tissue and bacteria. This method promotes healing with reduced discomfort and faster recovery compared to traditional procedures. By focusing solely on diseased areas, laser treatment preserves healthy tissue, leading to less bleeding and swelling. Additionally, the laser sterilizes the affected sites, minimizing the risk of infection and supporting the regeneration of healthy gum tissue.

Cost

The expenses for these treatments can vary significantly based on factors such as the severity of the gum disease, the specific procedures required, and the geographic location of the dental practice. For instance, scaling and root planing can range from $100 to $1,000 per quadrant. Antimicrobial treatments, which involve the use of medicated mouthwashes or gels to reduce bacteria and control infection, may add to the overall cost. Dental insurance coverage for non-surgical periodontal treatments can also greatly vary depending on the specific plan and the procedures involved. Many dental insurance policies cover a portion of periodontal procedures, typically between 50% and 80%, after meeting the deductible. However, coverage depends on your specific plan and the treatment’s necessity. It’s important to review your policy and discuss options with your dentist to understand potential out-of-pocket expenses. 

The Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy Guide Conclusion

Maintaining optimal oral health is so important for overall well-being. Addressing periodontal concerns right away can prevent more invasive treatments down the road. If you have questions about your oral health or wish to take proactive steps in maintaining a healthy smile, we invite you to schedule an appointment with our team at Utah Periodontal Specialists. For your convenience, we offer services at two locations: South Jordan and Salt Lake City. Our friendly staff is committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs, ensuring you receive the best possible dental experience.