The CDC says that gum disease affects nearly half of all individuals above 30 years of age in the US. It is a severe issue that can cause tooth loss if not addressed promptly. However, thanks to advances in dental treatments, there are increasingly successful methods of treating gum disease. The following is how dentists treat gum disease and periodontitis:
Scaling And Root Planing
The first treatment a dentist will undertake for gum disease is scaling and root planing. The dentist will scrape accumulated plaque and tartar from the tooth and root surfaces. The dentist will then smooth the roots to prevent bacteria from building up again. Depending on how severe the gum disease is, scaling and root planing may require multiple sessions.
The gum will start healing in a few weeks. The dentist will assess the improvement and determine if more treatment is necessary.
Pocket Reduction
Scaling and root planing solve most gum disease cases. However, the gum tissue may not fit well around the teeth, making cleaning the gums difficult, and a gum pocket reduction will be necessary. Periodontal pocket reduction, also called flap surgery, promotes gum tissue reattachment to healthy teeth and bones.
Gum Grafts
If gum disease leads to gum recession, the tooth roots will be exposed and vulnerable. A gum graft will be done, which involves taking tissue from other parts of the mouth and transferring it to the gums for additional tooth coverage. Gum grafts will also protect the tooth roots preventing bone loss and further gum recession.
Regenerative Procedures
Dentists can also use regenerative procedures that promote bone growth where gum disease has ravaged it. The dentist will use synthetic or natural bone plus tissue-stimulating proteins to promote bone growth.
Request an appointment at our dental office to have your mouth inspected and see what kind of treatment you need for your gum disease.
