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Treatments for Periodontal Disease

Authors:
  • Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Treatments for Periodontal Disease

The treatment and management of periodontal disease includes regular dental care, lifestyle changes, medications, and deep cleaning. For some surgery may be needed to remove damage tissue and teeth.

The goals of treatment of periodontal disease include:

  • Control the underlying infection
  • Halt destruction of the gums, tissues, and bones that support your teeth
  • Avoid potential tooth loss

Your dentist may need to refer you to a specialist in the treatment of gum disease, called a periodontist.

Treatment involves the following:

Lifestyle changes

Medications

Surgery

Other treatments

References

  • Gum disease risk factors. American Academy of Periodontology website. Available at: https://www.perio.org/consumer/risk-factors. Accessed August 17, 2016.
  • Gum (Periodontal) Disease. NIH SeniorHealth website. Available at: http://nihseniorhealth.gov/periodontaldisease/riskfactorsandprevention/01.html. Accessed August 17, 2016.
  • Periodontal disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/periodontal_disease/. Updated March 10, 2015. Accessed August 17, 2016.
  • Periodontal (gum) disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research website. Available at: http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm#riskFactors.Updated September 2013. Accessed August 17, 2016.

Contributors

  • Michael Woods, MD, FAAP
Last Updated:
2017-09-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.