What is soft tissue management?
A soft tissue management plan is a personalized plan designed by your dental team to help you maintain healthy gums for a lifetime.
Your dentist will create a proactive plan to help manage your soft tissue health, diminishing or lessening harmful bacteria that can cause multiple oral health issues. This plan will also treat plaque buildup on the teeth and beneath the gum line which can cause inflammation, soreness, gum bleeding, and progressive gum disease.
A comprehensive oral exam will indicate the presence of gum disease. The stage at which it is discovered will determine the treatment plan and management.
Patient care is primary in the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums, and our team at Country Hills Dentistry will help instruct patients in the best possible care to prevent and/or manage periodontal (gum) disease.
Controlling Periodontal Disease
The primary goal of a soft tissue management plan is to control periodontal (gum) disease. The program aims to eliminate inflammation and infection in the gums and on root surfaces. The desired result is healthy gums that are not tender or inflamed and do not bleed, reduced pocket depths, and, ultimately, well-controlled periodontal disease.
How will I know if I need a soft tissue management plan?
During your regular checkup, our dental team will examine your gums for signs of gum disease.
Signs of Gum Disease
- Inflammed or infected gums
- 'Periodontal pockets'
- Gum recession
- Bleeding or tender gums
- Discoloured gums (they should be pink, not red)
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
If you have periodontal pockets or other symptoms, we may recommend a soft tissue management plan in order to prevent the progression of gum disease.
What can I expect in a soft tissue management plan?
It is estimated that nearly half of the population may suffer from various stages of gum disease. Many dental offices will opt for periodontal surgery.
At Country Hills Dentistry, we choose to manage periodontal disease with less invasive methods, including the use of laser therapy and medication, to help patients treat and control symptoms.
If you need a soft tissue management plan, our dental team will develop an effective program that is personalized to your individual needs.
Some effective treatments include:
- Frequent hygiene appointments
- Root planning and scaling
- Specialized home care routines
- Antibiotics
- Surgical procedures (in rare circumstances)