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.
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.
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:
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 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.
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:
Surgical treatments are typically reserved for advanced gum disease but can be highly effective in restoring oral health and function.
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 Mableton general dentistry office today to learn more.
Request an appointment here: https://www.providencefamilydentistry.com or call Providence Family Dentistry at (678) 496-7021 for an appointment in our Mableton office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Mableton, GA.
Gum disease affects millions of people in the United States each year, and it is nothing to take lightly. It is important to visit your Mableton dentist at the first sign of gum disease to ensure the issue does not linger for longer than necessary or cause other oral health complications.Gum disease can not only…
Practicing preventive dentistry strategies can help you avoid serious dental problems. It can support your personal goals in keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Prevention is always better than going through treatments for serious dental problems. If you want to know how preventive dentistry can avoid the development of a serious oral problem, here are…
If you have dental issues that have made you less confident in your smile, you should consider consulting with a restorative dentist. The dentist will evaluate your smile and let you know how to restore the look of your teeth and, ultimately, your confidence in your smile. Continue reading to find out what restorative dental…
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on protecting your mouth against common dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. It include simple things that you can do independently, like practicing oral hygiene, and procedures performed by dentists, like dental cleanings.Taking good care of your mouth makes you less likely to develop…
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the alignment of your teeth. Clear aligners are one of the options you get to choose from when it comes to orthodontics. These appliances provide a discreet way to improve the alignment of your teeth without compromising the appearance of your smile.Traditional metal braces were…
In recent years, clear braces have been a preferred method of straightening teeth. People of all ages can enjoy the benefits these braces provide. However, if you are not careful, yellow and brown stains can appear on them, making the braces stand out. If you follow some basic guidelines, you can maintain their invisibility.There was…