Gum diseases are treated using various techniques based on their severity and type and how far they have progressed. Your overall health, age, and gum tissue condition will also be considered when choosing a treatment option.
While plaque is the primary cause of gum disease, other contributing factors include poor nutrition, genetics, medications, smoking, and clenching or grinding your teeth.
After your periodontist has determined the stage of disease present, they will develop a personalized treatment plan for you. Treatments may include surgical and nonsurgical procedures depending on the severity of your gum disease.
Nonsurgical procedures may be used as the only treatment for mild gum disease. More severe gum disease may require surgery alone or in combination with nonsurgical treatments. Here are some common gum disease treatments:
Nonsurgical Procedures
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are nonsurgical procedures used to remove tartar (calculus) and bacteria below the gumline. Scaling involves using special instruments to clean teeth above and below the gum line.
Root planing removes rough spots on the roots where germs can hide and cause infection. Furthermore, this procedure helps smooth the root so the gum can reattach more easily.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings (also called a prophylaxis) are routine cleanings done by a dentist or dental hygienist. During a professional cleaning, tartar and plaque are removed from above and below the gumline of all teeth.
This helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Professional cleanings are usually done every six months but may be more often depending on your individual needs.
Topical Medications
Topical medications are applied to the gum tissue and do not require an oral prescription. These formulations help control bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of the gums. Examples of topical medications include gels, rinses, and ointments.
Surgical Procedures
Pocket Reduction Surgery
Pocket reduction surgery is a periodontal surgery that removes disease-causing bacteria and infected gum tissue. This surgery reduces “pockets” (spaces) around the teeth, which can trap tartar and plaque and lead to gum disease. Consequently, this surgery can help reduce the depth of the pockets and make it easier to keep them clean.
Bone Grafts
Bone grafts are done to replace bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease. This surgery involves taking bone from another area of your body or using a synthetic bone substitute. The graft is then placed in the area of bone loss to help promote new bone growth and prevent tooth loss.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
Guided tissue regeneration is a type of periodontal surgery done to promote gum tissue and bone growth. This surgery is done by placing a small piece of mesh-like fabric over the area of bone loss. Furthermore, this surgery helps to prevent gum tissue from growing into the area of bone loss. Normally, this surgery is done in combination with other periodontal surgeries.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a type of surgery that is done to replace missing teeth. A metal post is placed in the jawbone, and an artificial tooth (crown) is placed on the post. Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss and can help to prevent bone loss. However, this surgery is usually only done as a last resort.
What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Periodontal Disease?
The most effective treatment for periodontal disease is a combination of professional dental cleanings, topical medications, and surgical procedures.
This combination of treatments can help to control bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of the gums. In addition, this combination of treatments can help to reduce the depth of pockets and make it easier to keep them clean.
Do You Need Special Preparation for These Treatments?
No special preparation is needed for most of these treatments. However, if you have surgery, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before your appointment.
You may also be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before your surgery. While most of these treatments are relatively simple, it is important to follow your Dr. Brown’s instructions to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
If you have any symptoms of periodontal diseases, such as bleeding gums or bad breath, you should see Dr. Brown for an evaluation. Furthermore, you should see your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and exam.
This will ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy and that any problems are detected early. Early detection and treatment of periodontal disease can help to prevent serious complications, such as tooth loss.
Get Personalized Treatment for Gum Disease
If you have any symptoms of periodontal disease, it’s important to contact us for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can help to prevent serious complications, such as tooth loss.
Our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating gum disease and can create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. Give us a call today to set up your next appointment.