Treatment

Studies support the effectiveness of active treatment combined with a strict maintenance program for patients with periodontal disease. In one 2002 study, for example, people with periodontal disease who were inconsistent in caring for their gums after treatment had 5.6 times the risk for tooth loss as those who were very vigilant.

Some dentists have reported a success rate of 85% when professional treatment and good home maintenance are combined. Treatment helps nonsmokers more than smokers, particularly when pockets are deep and persistent. One study found that periodontal treatment in people with type 2 diabetes actually helped improve blood sugar levels. Whether treatment will help reduce other health risks, including heart attack and stroke, is unknown.

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Treatment Goals. Once periodontal disease has been identified, the goals of treatment are the following:

• To arrest and control the progress of the disease
• To leave the periodontal tissues in an easily maintainable state
• If possible, to restore the supporting structures, which include bone, gum tissue, and ligaments

Treatment Phases. To achieve these goals, there are various approaches:

• Initial cleaning, scaling, and curettage
• Surgery  -- if needed for reducing deep pockets that remain underneath the gum after extensive cleaning sessions
• Low-dose oral or topical antibiotics
• Maintenance

After the active treatment is completed and the mouth is in a relative state of health, the patient should have regular cleanings lasting 45 minutes to 1 hour, approximately every 3 months. These may be done by the dental hygienist, the periodontist, or the general dentist. The patient may alternate between them. Home care, of course, must be continued.