# Advanced Periodontal Disease Treatment Options Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a serious infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. It can lead to tooth loss or worse, an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Here are some advanced treatment options for periodontal disease: ## Non-Surgical Treatments ### Scaling and Root Planing This is a deep-cleaning method performed under local anesthesia, where plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line are scraped away (scaling) and rough spots on the tooth root are made smooth (planing). This helps remove bacteria and provides a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth. ### Antibiotics Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics can include antibiotic mouth rinses or the insertion of gels containing antibiotics in the space between your teeth and gums or into pockets after deep cleaning. However, oral antibiotics may be necessary to completely eliminate infection-causing bacteria. ## Surgical Treatments ### Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery) During this procedure, the gums are lifted back and the tartar is removed. In some cases, irregular surfaces of the damaged bone are smoothed to limit areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide. The gums are then placed so that the tissue fits snugly around the tooth. This method reduces the size of the pocket, making it easier to keep the area clean. ### Bone Grafts This procedure involves using fragments of your own bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone to replace bone destroyed by periodontal disease. The grafts serve as a platform for the regrowth of bone, which restores stability to teeth. ### Soft Tissue Grafts This procedure reinforces thin gums or fills in places where gums have receded. Grafted tissue, most often taken from the roof of the mouth, is stitched in place, adding tissue to the affected area. ### Guided Tissue Regeneration Performed when the bone supporting your teeth has been destroyed, this technique stimulates bone and gum tissue growth. A small piece of mesh-like fabric is inserted between the bone and gum tissue, keeping the tissue from growing into the area where the bone should be, allowing the bone and connective tissue to regrow to better support the teeth. ### Bone Surgery After flap surgery, the bone around the tooth is reshaped to decrease the craters. This makes it harder for bacteria to collect and grow. ## Maintenance After undergoing any of these treatments, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Regular dental visits, brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and possibly using a mouth rinse recommended by your dentist can help keep periodontal disease at bay. In conclusion, advanced periodontal disease requires a combination of non-surgical and surgical treatments, along with diligent oral hygiene practices, to manage and treat effectively. Consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition.