Soft Tissue Management® (STM)

Periodontal Disease: A Common Oral Health Concern

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic condition affecting 70%-80% of adults. Though it often progresses without pain, its consequences can be serious, including gum inflammation, bone loss, and tooth loss. Beyond oral health, research indicates that periodontal disease can contribute to systemic conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

The root cause of periodontal disease is plaque buildup. When plaque isn’t thoroughly cleaned away, harmful bacteria irritate and inflame the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These pockets trap additional plaque and debris, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Timely diagnosis, professional treatment, and consistent home care are key to managing and controlling the effects of periodontal disease. Our practice addresses this through a specialized program called Soft Tissue Management® (STM).

Soft Tissue Management® (STM)

Soft Tissue Management® is a non-surgical, personalized approach to diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. The objective of STM is to remove active gum infection caused by bacterial plaque and restore gum health. Treatment typically involves 2-4 visits and includes a combination of:

• Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning).
• Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR).
• Subgingival irrigation with antimicrobial and desensitizing agents.
• Localized antibiotic treatment (e.g., Arestin) if needed.

The Soft Tissue Management Plan

STM is a comprehensive process to reduce and control periodontal disease while restoring gum health. The program involves the following four steps:

Dental Exam

The process begins with a detailed periodontal exam to assess gum health. This includes measuring pocket depths to determine the stage and severity of the disease.

Scaling and Root Planing

This non-surgical deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and beneath the gumline. Smoothing the tooth roots discourages further plaque accumulation and promotes gum reattachment to the teeth.

Subgingival Irrigation

Antimicrobial solutions are used to flush bacteria from the treated areas, reducing infection and encouraging healing.

At-Home Oral Hygiene

An essential part of STM is following a personalized oral hygiene plan. Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is crucial for preventing further plaque buildup and managing gum health.

Why Soft Tissue Management® Is Essential

Soft Tissue Management® goes beyond routine cleaning to address the underlying causes of gum disease. By removing harmful bacteria and plaque, STM helps prevent tooth loss and the progression of periodontal disease. For patients with advanced gum disease, STM provides an effective and non-surgical path to recovery.

The Goals of Soft Tissue Management®

• Healthy gums that do not bleed.
• Reduction of redness, swelling, and tenderness.
• Fresher breath and improved taste.
• Reduced pocket depths around teeth.
• Control of periodontal disease.
• Guidance on maintaining proper oral hygiene for lasting gum health.

By investing in Soft Tissue Management®, patients can achieve healthier gums, improved oral health, and a better overall quality of life.