Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy

When periodontal disease is established the first treatment is often non-surgical periodontal therapy. This can often be the only treatment needed to treat periodontal disease. During this treatment patient is anesthetized locally. Nitrous oxide, also know as laughing gas, can be used to help apprehensive patients get in a more relaxed state of mind; However, this step is not always necessary. The hygienist will next use instruments to clean the surfaces around the teeth and under the gumline. This treatment is often effective in pockets that have shallow to moderate depth. Patient’s commitment to plaque removal is required for a good outcome from this procedure.