Gum disease must be treated to maintain good dental health and prevent harm to the gums and supporting components. A different treatment strategy is used. Depending on the stage of the gum disease, a professional dental cleaning normally removes plaque and tartar and establishes good oral hygiene habits at home. Deep cleaning techniques, antibiotics, and surgical operations can be required in more extreme situations. To effectively control gum disease and advance general oral health, routine dental exams and upkeep are essential.
What are the types of gum disease?
There are two main types of gum disease:
Gingivitis: The most prevalent and mildest type of gum disease is gingivitis. It is characterised by gum inflammation (gingiva) brought on by plaque build-up, a sticky bacterial film that develops on teeth. Gingivitis is significantly influenced by poor oral hygiene. Gums that are red, swollen, and sensitive, as well as bleeding when brushing or flossing, are all signs of gingivitis.
Periodontitis: Gingivitis can become a more serious form of gum disease if not treated. In addition to gum inflammation, periodontitis worsens the bone and tissues supporting teeth. Bacteria flourish in pockets between the gums and teeth due to the continued spread of plaque and tartar below the gum line. These pockets deepen over time, causing more bone loss and gum recession. Advanced gum disease can cause scaling and root planing; flap surgery, bone grafting, and tissue grafts are more invasive treatment modalities.
What are non-surgical treatments for gum diseases?
Improved Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is crucial for halting the spread of gum disease, including brushing, flossing, and, if necessary, using prescription mouth rinses.
Lifestyle Modifications: Modifying one’s lifestyle, quitting smoking, and managing medical disorders can improve the results of treating gum disease.
Scale and root planning (Deep Cleaning): If periodontitis has developed from gum disease, a deeper cleaning procedure called scale and root planning is carried out. Plaque and tartar underneath the gum line are removed during this operation, and the teeth are smoothed. The gums reattach to the teeth by providing the root surfaces.
Antibiotics: Topical or oral antibiotics may occasionally be administered to lessen bacterial infection and inflammation.
What are surgical treatments for gum disease?
Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): If deep pockets continue despite the scale and root planning, flap surgery (also known as pocket reduction surgery) may be required. During this operation, the gums are lifted to access and clean the deep pockets. The gums are then repositioned to lessen the depth of the pockets.
Bone and Tissue Grafts: Grafting techniques may replace missing structures when there has been a severe loss of bone and tissue.
Following the initial course of treatment, it is essential to schedule routine follow-up appointments with the dentist or periodontist in a dental office such as The Walton Practice to check on the condition of the gum disease and verify that it is being properly managed. Always remember that managing gum disease successfully requires early detection and intervention.
Getting professional dental care if you feel you have gum disease or any alarming symptoms is crucial to accurately diagnose and treat your illness according to the best course of action.