Periodontics in Montgomery, AL

Periodontal gum disease is characterized by sore and bleeding gums, pain while chewing, bad breath, tooth and bone loss. The infection process causes the gums to pull away from the teeth leaving a space called a pocket.  Bacteria gets down in those pockets and begins destroying the bone and tooth.  Teeth become lose and will eventually fall out or have to be removed.

Some people will need a more advanced gum treatment known as scaling and root planing, where plaque and tarter are removed from the periodontal pockets.  This process can sometimes take more than one visit. The root surfaces of the teeth are then smoothed to allow the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the teeth. Dr. Sandlin may recommend medications to help control infection and pain or to aid healing. These can include oral antibiotics, a mouth rinse or a medication that is placed directly into the periodontal pocket after scaling and root planing.

A follow up visit is typically scheduled within a few weeks to check the gums for healing.  At this time a determination is usually made about the frequency of return visits, further treatment etc.

Compliance with the agreed upon dental visit schedule and attention to home care are crucial in managing your periodontal disease.