Gum disease treatment encompasses a variety of procedures aimed at addressing and managing periodontal disease, which affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. Treatment begins with a thorough dental examination to determine the extent of the disease.
Early stages, known as gingivitis, may be treated with professional dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene practices at home. But if the disease has progressed to periodontitis, more intensive treatments are required. Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure, is often the first step, where plaque and tartar are removed from below the gum line, and the tooth roots are smoothed to help the gums reattach to the teeth. In more advanced cases, surgical interventions such as flap surgery, bone grafts, or soft tissue grafts may be necessary to restore damaged bone and gum tissue. Antimicrobial mouth rinses or antibiotics may also be prescribed to control bacterial infection.
Treating gum disease is crucial as it prevents tooth loss, reduces the risk of systemic health issues linked to periodontal diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and ensures oral health and well-being.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. When plaque is not effectively removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation of the gums.
The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, characterized by symptoms such as red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. The condition is usually reversible at this stage with improved oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings.
If gingivitis progresses without treatment, it can develop into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis occurs when the inflammation spreads deeper into the supporting structures of the teeth, causing damage to the bone and connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. This stage may lead to pockets between the gums and teeth, where bacteria can thrive, resulting in further tissue and bone loss. If left untreated, periodontitis can ultimately lead to tooth mobility and loss.
Gum disease has also been associated with various systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems, highlighting the importance of maintaining good oral health and seeking timely treatment.
Common symptoms of gum disease include:
This is a deep cleaning procedure in Houston, Texas, used for patients with moderate gum disease. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth. This treatment helps reduce inflammation, bacteria, and pockets between the gums and teeth.
Local or systemic antibiotics may be prescribed to complement scaling and root planing and help control bacterial infection. Local antibiotics are applied directly to the gum pockets, while systemic antibiotics are taken orally to reach deeper areas of infection. These medications assist in reducing bacteria and promoting gum healing.
Also known as flap surgery, this procedure is performed by the dentist in Houston, Texas, when deep gum pockets remain despite nonsurgical treatments. The gums are lifted away from the teeth to remove tartar and bacteria from the root surfaces, the pockets are reduced, and the gums are sutured back into place. This surgery helps decrease the depth of gum pockets and improve gum health.
Gum grafting can restore lost gum tissue for patients with significant gum recession or tissue loss. During this procedure, a small amount of tissue is taken from another part of the mouth (or a donor source) and grafted onto the affected area. This helps to cover exposed tooth roots, prevent further recession, and enhance the aesthetic appearance of the gums. Contact us today to learn more.
When gum disease has caused significant bone loss around the teeth, bone grafting may be necessary to restore the bone structure. The procedure involves placing bone graft material in the area where bone loss has occurred by our dentist. This encourages new bone growth and provides a stable foundation for future dental work, such as implants.
Once initial treatment is completed, ongoing maintenance is essential to prevent the recurrence of gum disease. Regular professional cleanings and periodontal checkups help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, monitor gum health, and address any new issues promptly.
Effective at-home care is crucial for managing gum disease. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses to reduce plaque and bacteria. Good oral hygiene practices complement professional treatments and help maintain gum health.
Some advanced practices offer laser therapy as a minimally invasive option for treating gum disease. Lasers can remove diseased tissue and bacteria, promote healing, and reduce gum pocket depths. This approach can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty with traditional surgical methods.
Addressing gum disease promptly is crucial for preventing its progression to more severe stages, which can lead to tooth loss and systemic health complications. Visit Galleria Perio & Implants at 5858 Westheimer, Suite 820, Houston, Texas 77057, United States. Call 713-784-6065 to schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards healthier gums and a brighter smile.
5858 Westheimer, Suite 820,
Houston, TX, 77057
Phone: (713) 784-6065