Gum Treatment – Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about periodontal disease, including its causes, symptoms, gum treatment, and post-treatment care for good oral health.
What is Basic and Advanced Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a condition that affects the tissues and bones supporting the teeth. It is caused by bacteria that build up on teeth and gums, forming a sticky film known as plaque. If plaque is not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, one of the first proper gum infection symptoms. It can only be removed by a dental professional.
Periodontal disease can range from mild to severe and is divided into two main categories: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and signs of gingivitis include inflammation and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, which involves the breakdown of the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth. This can cause tooth loss and other serious oral health problems.
Main Reasons Behind Needing Periodontal Gum Treatment
The primary cause of the periodontal disease is the buildup of plaque on teeth and gums. Other factors that can contribute to the development of gum disease include:
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can allow plaque to accumulate on teeth and gums, leading to gum disease.
- Genetics: Some individuals may be more susceptible to gum disease due to genetic factors.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy and menopause can increase the risk of gum disease.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can affect the body’s ability to fight infection, making individuals with diabetes more prone to gum disease.
Visiting a good dentist can help you understand this disease much better. We at Laser Dentistry Near Me offer all the information and consultation you may need about periodontal disease.
What To Do If You Need Periodontal Infection Treatment?
If you suspect that you have periodontal disease, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will evaluate the severity of the disease and recommend the appropriate treatment. Treatment for periodontal disease will depend on the severity of the condition and may include:
- Scaling and root planning: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth and roots.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to help control bacterial infection and inflammation in the gums.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and bone and reposition healthy gum tissue.
What is the treatment like for periodontal disease?
How a dentist decides to treat gum diseases will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases of gingivitis, the dentist may recommend improved dental hygiene practices and regular professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. In more severe cases, scaling and root planning may be necessary to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line.
- Scaling and root planning is usually performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The dentist or dental hygienist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth and roots.
- In cases with serious periodontal disease symptoms, gum surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and bone and reposition healthy gum tissue. Surgery can be done with a scalpel, laser, or other surgical instruments, depending on the needs of the patient.
Laser Therapy for Periodontal Disease
Given the huge amount of pain one may endure during gum disease treatment, especially in surgery, a new technique has been introduced to reduce the pain for patients. This treatment involves the use of lasers to perform the surgery instead of traditional surgical tools. Using light beams makes the process far less painful, and it is also a lot more hygienic. However, you must get this done from a reliable source only, one with the right certifications and experience.
We at Laser Dentistry Near Me offer a highly specialized laser treatment option for gum disease. Our experienced staff takes you through the entire process carefully and you can be sure of getting the best treatment anywhere in Texas.
FAQs About Gums Dental Care
- How can I treat gum disease?
Gum disease treatment depends on the severity of the disease itself. Treatments can range from basic dental hygiene to surgical interventions.
- What happens at the first appointment?
Your dentist will examine the condition of your teeth on your first visit and the spread of the disease and suggest the required treatment options.
- How long does it take?
Typically, treatment sessions for gum disease can last an hour or two, depending on the case. Some people may also require a second visit.
Summing Up Gum Treatment
As you can see, periodontal disease is not something that you can take lightly. It can creep up on you if you are not careful and cause quite a lot of damage. If you are in Texas and find yourself in need of treatment, you can visit us at Laser Dentistry Near Me.
We are offering the best treatment options, including the latest laser treatments. You can reach out to us via phone or live chat, or you can book yourself an appointment at any time using our 24/7 online booking option.