Cosmetic Dentistry: Before and After Slideshow Pictures Take the Dental Health Quiz

Medical Treatment

If the dentist diagnoses periodontal disease, the first treatment will probably include scaling and root planing. More than one visit may be needed for this treatment. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line down to the bottom of each pocket.

• A local anesthetic (Novocain) may be needed to reduce discomfort.

• The roots of the teeth are smoothed. Smoothing allows the gums to reattach to their roots.

• Antibiotics and a special mouth rinse may be needed.

• If pockets are still present after scaling and planing, surgery may be needed.