Prosthodontics & Orthodontics

Maintenance Therapy

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Acute and long-term (chronic) gum infections require a procedure called scaling and root planning. Some people also may need periodontal surgery. Antimicrobial therapy is the use of chemicals to kill or slow down the growth of bacteria that cause periodontal (gum) disease. The two most common forms of this therapy are antiseptics and antibiotics. Antiseptics are found in mouth rinses. They usually are used to help prevent periodontal disease. Antibiotics are used to kill specific bacteria. They are placed under the gums or given as pills to treat gum disease. Gingivoplasty is a type of gum surgery used to reshape healthy gum tissue around teeth. Side effects from radiation therapy to the head and neck may include dry mouth, tooth decay, loss of taste, mouth and gum sores, bone disease, and stiffness in the jaw.