If you are in the early stages, it may be possible to halt and reverse gum disease by performing a scaling and root planning procedure, which involves removing the plaque or calculus from the root, then smoothing the surface of the root to inhibit the growth and accumulation of future bacteria. While this approach to correcting gum disease is often very effective, especially if conducted in the early stages of the disease, it will be necessary to schedule regular periodontal maintenance every three to six months, and possibly with greater frequency to ensure gum disease does not develop again.

More advanced cases of gum disease may require surgical intervention to restore the functionality and improve the cosmetic appearance of your teeth. When periodontal disease has become so advanced that traditional treatment methods are no longer sufficient and regular brushing and cleaning techniques are no longer able to remove the harmful bacteria, osseous surgery (also known as periodontal pocket reduction) may be necessary. Osseous surgery is a surgical procedure that involves eliminating bacteria, reducing pockets, and smoothing damaged bone to create a healthy environment where your gums can reattach to the bone.

In addition to osseous surgery, patients who have developed significant gum recession due to advanced periodontal disease may benefit from a gum graft. A gum graft corrects receded gums by taking a piece of tissue (typically from the roof of the mouth) or donor tissue and suturing it over the area of recession. Placing this new tissue helps stimulate new growth, reduces your risk of developing periodontal disease, and improves the aesthetic appearance of one’s smile. A gingivectomy may also be performed for patients who do not respond to traditional periodontal therapeutic treatment, such as scaling and root planning. During a gingivectomy, the gums are removed and reshaped in order to reduce the pocketing around your teeth, which can house harmful bacteria.