3 Types of Gum Disease Treatment
General dentistry has several approaches to gum disease treatment. The goal is to prevent complications like tooth loss, relieve pain and discomfort, and restore the patient’s smile. Learning the basics of the most common types of gum disease treatment can help patients better understand why a specific approach is recommended for their oral health needs.
Understanding gum disease and its oral health impact
Gum problems tend to begin with gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease characterized by gum inflammation, redness, swelling, and occasional bleeding during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis can progress without treatment, eventually damaging the jawbone and tissues that support the teeth. Advanced gum disease can result in tooth mobility and even tooth loss.
Gum disease results from the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which harbor harmful bacteria that irritate and infect the gums. Risk factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. Beyond oral health, untreated gum disease has been linked to systemic issues from heart disease to diabetes, another reason why it is important to treat it promptly.
Types of gum disease treatment
While gingivitis may be reversible with non-invasive procedures, advanced gum disease often requires more intensive interventions. Here are three common types of gum disease treatment commonly recommended in general dentistry:
Deep cleaning: Scaling and root planing
A deep cleaning called scaling and root planing can effectively treat mild to moderate gum disease. This non-invasive treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the root surfaces (root planing) to prevent bacteria from reattaching. Conversely, the gums can easily reattach to smooth, clean teeth roots.
A dentist or dental hygienist may use special instruments, ultrasonic devices, or laser technology to thoroughly clean the affected areas during scaling and root planing. As a result of this procedure, patients often experience reduced gum inflammation, tighter gum attachment, and an improvement in overall gum health.
Antibiotic therapy for gum infections
Antibiotic therapy often works alongside other treatments to target the bacterial infection causing gum disease. Dentists may recommend systemic antibiotics in pill form, as well as local antibiotic gels or dissolvable strips to be applied directly to the affected gum tissue. This gum disease treatment aims to reduce infection, relieve inflammation, and improve gum pocket depth, enhancing the overall efficacy of other treatments.
Surgical gum disease treatments
For advanced gum disease that has caused significant damage to the gum tissue or supporting structures, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical gum disease treatments include the following techniques, each of which can address specific issues:
- Flap surgery. Lifts the gums to access and clean deeper pockets of infection.
- Bone grafting. Restores bone density and supports the teeth.
- Soft tissue grafting. Covers exposed tooth roots and restores the gum line.
Surgical treatments are typically reserved for advanced gum disease but can be highly effective in restoring oral health and function.
Schedule a consultation for gum disease treatment
By promptly addressing gum disease with professional gum disease treatment, patients can maintain healthy gums, strong teeth, and overall well-being. Whether the patient has a mild or advanced case of gum disease, there are effective treatments available to restore their oral health. Call our Lansing general dentistry office today to learn more.
Request an appointment here: https://www.ddslansing.com or call Downtown Dental Studio at (517) 481-2569 for an appointment in our Lansing office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Lansing, MI.
Related Posts
Are you considering getting a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth? This prosthetic can work wonders, but like with all prosthetics, you might be wondering how you are supposed to maintain it so it lasts forever. Continue reading to find out more.Here are a general dentist's tips about caring for dental bridges. Reviewing this…
A healthy, complete smile is not only about looking good but is also important for your overall well-being. Dental bridges can help restore the appearance and function of your teeth. However, common misconceptions about these replacement options can prevent people from understanding their benefits. Let us debunk some common myths about dental bridges.While dental bridges…
When people fail to care for their teeth properly, they can end up with dental cavities that require a tooth filling. When there is a cavity, it will need to be filled to prevent further decay and infection. The following article offers oral care tips that can help you prevent cavities and the need for…
Dental bridges are an effective option for people missing teeth due to trauma, infection, or decay. They can prevent the teeth from shifting, a common side effect of missing teeth. They also restore normal oral function and appearance. Here are a few types of dental bridges a dentist might consider.A traditional dental bridge is the…