Periodontal disease can range from mild gum irritation to severe conditions that affect the teeth and bone supporting your smile. Fortunately, there are a variety of effective treatments available to restore gum health and prevent tooth loss. Whether you're dealing with early-stage gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis, it's important to understand the available treatment options. In this blog, we’ll discuss five common periodontal treatments to help you maintain healthy gums and teeth.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
One of the most common treatments for periodontal disease is scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that targets the areas below the gum line. During this treatment, your dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and roots, smoothing the surface to promote gum reattachment. This procedure is typically used in the early stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis or mild periodontitis.
If you’re looking for a solution to address plaque buildup and gum disease, consider scheduling an appointment for preventive care dental cleanings to prevent issues before they develop into something more severe.
Periodontal Surgery
In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgery may be required to restore gum health. Periodontal surgery is often recommended when scaling and root planing alone are not enough to treat severe gum disease. Some common surgical options include:
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Flap Surgery: This procedure involves lifting the gums to remove tartar and bacteria, then suturing the gums back into place.
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Bone Grafting: In cases where the jawbone has been damaged by periodontitis, bone grafting can help regenerate lost bone tissue, providing support for your teeth.
If you're experiencing advanced gum disease, it might be time to discuss restorative dentistry options such as dental implants to replace any missing teeth.
Antibiotic Treatment
Sometimes, scaling and root planing may be followed by the use of antibiotics to help control infection and reduce inflammation in the gums. These can be applied directly to the affected area or taken in pill form. Antibiotics are typically used for moderate to severe gum disease to help eliminate bacteria that may not be completely removed through cleaning alone.
If you're worried about gum disease affecting your smile, read more about how to care for your Invisalign aligners or other cosmetic treatments to help maintain both your teeth and gum health.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a more recent advancement in the treatment of periodontal disease. Using a focused laser, a dentist or periodontist can target infected tissues, remove bacteria, and promote healing without the need for traditional surgery. This treatment is less invasive, requires less recovery time, and can be more comfortable than traditional surgical options.
For those looking for non-invasive treatments, cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening or veneers can also help enhance the appearance of your smile, in addition to treating underlying gum issues.
Gum Grafting
In cases where gum recession has occurred due to periodontal disease, gum grafting can restore the gums to a healthy, natural appearance. During gum graft surgery, tissue is taken from another area of the mouth or from a donor source and used to cover the exposed tooth roots. This procedure not only improves the aesthetics of your smile but also helps protect the roots of your teeth from further damage.
If gum recession has affected your smile and you’re looking for restorative options, learn more about how dental veneers can improve the appearance of your teeth while addressing underlying concerns such as gum health.
Get Ahead of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease can have a significant impact on your overall oral health if not addressed early. The good news is there are various treatments available to help restore gum health and prevent tooth loss. Whether you need a deep cleaning, surgery, or antibiotic treatment, there are options to suit your needs.
At Flossy Smiles, we offer a range of restorative dentistry options, including dental implants and cosmetic dentistry services to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. To learn more about the best treatment for your gum health, visit us today and take advantage of our special offers for new patients.
By taking action early and working with your dentist, you can effectively treat and manage periodontal disease, ensuring your gums and teeth stay healthy for years to come.
FAQs about Periodontal Disease and Treatments
1. What is periodontal disease and what causes it?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, including the gums and bone. It is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar, which harbor harmful bacteria. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetics, and other factors can increase the risk of developing this condition.
2. What is scaling and root planing, and when is it necessary?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline. This procedure is typically recommended in the early stages of gum disease (such as gingivitis or mild periodontitis) to prevent further progression and promote gum reattachment.
3. Are there surgical options for treating periodontal disease?
Yes, periodontal surgery may be necessary in more advanced stages of gum disease. Options like flap surgery or bone grafting are used when scaling and root planing are insufficient. These surgeries help to remove bacteria, regenerate bone tissue, and restore the health of your gums.
4. How does laser therapy work for treating periodontal disease?
Laser therapy uses a focused beam of light to remove infected tissue and bacteria from the gums. This method is less invasive than traditional surgery, often resulting in quicker recovery times and less discomfort. It can be an excellent option for those seeking a more comfortable, non-invasive treatment.
5. What is gum grafting and why would I need it?
Gum grafting is a procedure used to restore gum tissue lost due to gum recession. In this treatment, tissue is taken from another area of the mouth or from a donor source to cover exposed tooth roots. Gum grafting helps to improve the aesthetics of your smile while protecting the teeth from further damage.