At Gulf Coast Dental, several different types of procedures fall under minimally invasive periodontal treatment. Most involve reshaping the gum tissue to make the tooth appear longer or shorter. Other treatments decrease or increase the amount of gum tissue covering a tooth.

The gums can appear large when a patient's teeth look small and too small for their mouth. Gum tissue can be removed or reshaped to lengthen and reshape teeth. This can be done to one tooth or a few teeth.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by bacterial plaque buildup on and in between teeth. It's caused by not brushing and flossing correctly. Patients who suffer from gum disease often notice their gums bleed when brushing. Common symptoms include persistent bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused when bacteria build up on the teeth and under the gums. This bacteria can result from not brushing or flossing correctly, leading to plaque and tartar buildup. Other factors that can lead to gum disease include tobacco use, hormonal changes, medications, and genetics.

Types of Non-Surgical Gum Treatments

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical treatment that involves removing calcified plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the gums. Scaling and root planing is typically performed when a patient has gum disease or gingivitis. It is a more conservative form of treatment compared to gum surgery.

Dental Curettage

Non surgical gum disease treatment can also include curettage. A dental specialist will scrape the plaque and tartar from below the gum line using a curette during this treatment. The specialist will also smooth the tooth root's surface to prevent future plaque buildup. This procedure is not the same as deep cleaning. 

Laser Gum Therapy

Laser gum therapy is a nonsurgical gum disease treatment that uses a laser beam to target bacteria beneath the gum line. This treatment can also be used to reshape the gum line to reduce the appearance of a “gummy” smile.

Perio Protect Method

Perio Protect Method is a type of dental cleaning treatment that uses an irrigator and specialized instruments to clean the spaces between the teeth and the gums. As the irrigant and devices are moved through the mouth, the harmful plaque and tartar are broken up and washed away. This deep cleaning treatment can remove stubborn stains and discoloration from your teeth.

For the best dental care, visit Gulf Coast Dental at 1751 W 9 Mile Rd. Pensacola, FL 32534, or call Dentist in Pensacola, FL at (850) 495-6899.