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Stephen P. Howarth, D.M.D.

Stephen P. Howarth, JR., D.M.D.

Treatment

Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease.  Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Periodontal disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums gets filled with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues.  When these irritants remain in the pocket space, they can cause damage to the gums and eventually, the bone that supports the teeth!

If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended.  You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings.

If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended.  It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb.  In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planing).  This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink.  Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.

If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean.  Your dentist may also recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).


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Wallingford Station Family Dental
Drs. Howarth Sr., & Howarth Jr.
Creating Beautiful Smiles
Wallingford Dentist, Dr. Stephen Howarth is a dental professional dedicated to General, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry such as Dental Exams, Cleanings, X-rays, Fluoride, Dental Makeovers, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Crowns, & more. Please come and visit Wallingford, PA dentist Stephen Howarth, DDS.

The information and advice contained in or made available through the Wallingford Family Dental website is not intended to replace the services of a trained health professional or be a substitute for the advice of a dentist. Use of this website does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. The user should consult a dentist in all matters relating to his or her oral health and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or treatment. Wallingford Family dental makes no representations or warrantees with respect to any information provided within or through the website. We assume no responsibility for content contained in hyperlinks provided in this site. Wallingford Family dental will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages arising therefrom.