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 Hollister general dentistry office today to learn more.
Request an appointment here: https://matthewparilladmd.com or call Matthew Parilla DMD at (831) 207-4692 for an appointment in our Hollister office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Hollister, CA.
Helping your child develop good oral hygiene habits starts at home. But which products should you use to keep their teeth bright and healthy? Our kid-friendly dentist can recommend the best products to support your child's oral healthcare between their routine checkups and cleanings.A soft-bristled toothbrush designed for children is one of the most important…
Sleep apnea is a chronic disorder in which an individual briefly stops breathing while asleep. These breathing interruptions can cause the person to wake up, gasp for air or snore. Left untreated, this condition can lead to sleep deprivation and negatively affect overall health. Many people suffer from this sleep issue without knowing it. It is…
Professional teeth whitening is one of the most effective ways to achieve a brighter, more youthful smile. With a variety of treatment options available, patients can choose between in-office whitening procedures and at-home treatments. Both methods provide excellent results, but there are key differences that can help determine the most effective option for individual needs.…
Do you have an appointment for teeth cleaning coming up? Teeth cleanings are necessary for patients of all ages, regardless of oral health status. They help patients to maintain healthy teeth and gums, which is why they are so essential. While most people follow the recommendation to get them done twice a year, there are…