The initial periodontal therapy for periodontal disease is also called scaling and root planing. This is a thorough, deep cleaning done with local anesthetics.  It includes scaling to remove plaque and tartar deposits beneath the gum line. 

Root planing is then performed to smooth the roots and to remove the bacterial layer which has imbedded itself in the top layer of the root. Initial Periodontal Therapy (IPT) allows the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth.

As an adjunct to scaling and root planing, adjunctive antibiotics may be selectively recommended to help kill the bacteria that cause periodontitis. As part of your ongoing periodontal maintenance, Dr. Bye may place an antibiotic gel in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to help control the infection and to reduce the pocket depth.

When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for Dr. Bye to thoroughly remove all of the bacterial plaque and tartar. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, pocket reduction treatment may be needed to restore complete periodontal health.