Desiccation Therapy in Pittsburgh, PA

Targeted Bacterial Reduction for Periodontal Health

Desiccation Therapy is a minimally invasive treatment designed to reduce harmful bacteria within periodontal pockets using a gentle drying process.

At PGH Dental Wellness, we use desiccation therapy as part of a comprehensive, biologically aligned approach to managing gum disease. This treatment helps disrupt bacterial colonies at their source — without surgery, scalpels, or aggressive tissue removal.

It is precise, efficient, and designed to support natural healing.

What Is Desiccation Therapy?

Desiccation therapy works by applying a controlled stream of compressed, dehumidified air into periodontal pockets. This process:

• Destroys anaerobic (oxygen-intolerant) bacteria
• Disrupts biofilm structure
• Reduces inflammation
• Creates an environment less favorable for harmful pathogens

Because many periodontal pathogens thrive in oxygen-poor environments, introducing a controlled drying effect can significantly reduce their survival.

The treatment is quick, well tolerated, and performed comfortably in-office.

Why We Use Desiccation Therapy

Traditional periodontal treatment often relies on mechanical scraping or surgical intervention. While effective in certain cases, these approaches can sometimes be aggressive.

Desiccation therapy allows us to:

• Target bacteria without cutting tissue
• Support healing without sutures
• Reduce the need for surgical flap procedures in some cases
• Complement scaling and root planing
• Improve long-term pocket stability

It works particularly well alongside therapies like:

• Guided Biofilm Therapy
• EMS Airflow
• Perio Protect
• Salivary Diagnostics

Together, these tools allow us to treat periodontal disease from multiple angles — mechanical, bacterial, and biological.

Who Is a Candidate?

Desiccation therapy may be recommended for patients who:

• Have moderate periodontal pocketing
• Experience recurring gum inflammation
• Want to avoid surgical gum procedures
• Are in periodontal maintenance
• Have implants requiring bacterial control
• Prefer conservative treatment options

It is especially helpful for patients seeking non-invasive solutions aligned with whole-body health.

Benefits of Desiccation Therapy

• Non-surgical approach
• Minimal discomfort
• No cutting or sutures
• Reduced bacterial load
• Faster recovery compared to surgical options
• Can be repeated safely if needed
• Supports long-term periodontal stability

Because it targets bacteria directly, many patients notice improvements in gum bleeding and inflammation shortly after treatment.

FAQs About Desiccation Therapy

Is desiccation therapy painful?

No. Most patients report minimal to no discomfort during the procedure.

Does it replace scaling and root planing?

It can complement traditional scaling, and in some cases may reduce the need for surgical intervention. Each case is evaluated individually.

How long does the procedure take?

Treatment is typically completed in a short in-office visit, depending on the number of areas treated.

Is it safe for dental implants?

Yes. Desiccation therapy can help reduce bacteria around implants and support peri-implant health.

Will I need multiple treatments?

Some patients benefit from periodic re-treatment as part of ongoing periodontal maintenance.

A More Conservative Approach to Gum Therapy

At PGH Dental Wellness, we prioritize precision and preservation. Desiccation therapy allows us to reduce harmful bacteria while protecting healthy tissue — supporting both oral and systemic health.

If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease or are seeking a non-surgical treatment option, we’ll help determine whether this therapy is right for you.

Request an Appointment or call (412) 367-1808 to learn more.