Gum Therapy (or Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)) – is the most effective way to treat gum disease. During SRP, the Dr. Kvitko or his hygienist cleans between the gums and teeth, down to the root. We may need to use local anesthetic to numb the gums and the roots of your teeth while the procedure is performed.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a careful cleaning of the root surfaces to remove plaque and calculus [tartar] from deep periodontal pockets and to smooth the tooth root to remove bacterial toxins. Scaling and root planing is often followed by adjunctive therapy such as local delivery antimicrobials and host modulation, as needed on a case-by-case basis.

While many patients do not require any further active treatment after this procedure, the majority of patients will require ongoing maintenance therapy to sustain health.

Tray Delivery Systems

A tray delivery system consists of a custom-fit tray made from impressions of the patient’s mouth. Patients use the tray at home to deliver medications that have been prescribed by Dr. Kvitko. Tray delivery systems were cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since they are similar to fluoride trays traditionally used to prevent tooth decay. However, the FDA clearance process did not determine that any specific medication delivered via tray delivery systems has been proven to be a safe or effective way to treat gum disease. Additionally, numerous clinical studies have suggested that topically applied medicines do not reach the source of periodontal infections. When determining the best course of treatment for your specific case, be sure to discuss any questions you may have with the dental professionals at Dr. Kvitko & Associates.