What is Periodontal Disease and How to Get Rid of It?

Poor oral hygiene not only affects your breath but will cause gum irritation, inflammation, or worse still tooth decay. The practice of brushing twice and flossing once a day does more for your health than you would realize. However, sometimes plaque still builds up and, if not removed, can cause tartar, which is the leading cause of periodontal disease. That is why dentists recommend getting professional teeth cleaning to remove tartar and plaques from your gum. Deep dental cleaning is not a treatment for gum disease, but rather a preventive measure.

But, if you have gum disease, don’t fret. With proper treatment, the dentist can reverse the effects and restore your dental integrity. Several treatment options are available, but first, let’s discuss what periodontal disease is and its causes.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease affects the surrounding tissues and bone that support the teeth. The infection develops in stages, starting with gingivitis or gum inflammation. Gingivitis is mild and often can be treated with proper hygiene, deep cleaning, and antibiotics. However, left untreated, the infection can advance to periodontitis.

Periodontitis creates deep gum pockets that harbor bacteria. Gum disease weakens the teeth and, in severe cases, cause tooth extraction.

How Can You Tell You Have Gum Disease?

Gum bleeding, tenderness, and swelling are the primary symptoms of gum disease. However, as the infection progresses, you may develop bad breath, pain when chewing, dark gums, the recession of gums and bones, and weak teeth.

Although gum disease can affect anyone, certain factors can increase the risk, such as hormonal imbalance, obesity, smoking, weak immune system, and certain medication. It is essential to examine your teeth and gums every day and get regular dental checkups.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Several gum disease treatment options are available based on the severity and the stage of the gum disease.

• Antibiotics

The dentist will prescribe antibiotics, mouthwashes, and gels to get rid of the infection and prevent further damage.

• Scaling and root planning

Scaling and root planning is the initial dental treatment for gum disease. During the procedure, the dentist will remove the tartar buildup from your gum line. They will also clean the pockets of bacteria and any debris. Next, the dentist will reattach the gums back and stitch them for healing.

After root scaling treatment, you may experience tooth sensitivity, gum soreness, and swelling.

• Flap surgery

The surgical procedure involves lifting the gums to clean the tartar and stitching the gums tightly on the teeth. Flap surgery closes the tiny spaces in between your gums that can cause bacteria to multiply.

• Gum graft

Gum grafting is done on receding gums, usually in advanced periodontal treatment. Gum grafting involves taking a small piece of tissue from the top of your mouth and cover the exposed root to generate new tissue.

• Bone graft and surgery

At times, gum disease can cause the surrounding bone to recede and weaken the teeth. The dentist may perform a bone graft using bone granules from your hip or a cadaver to prevent further bone loss and regenerate new growth.

What Can You Expect During the Procedure?

Gum disease treatment differs from patient to patient based on the severity of the condition. On average, though, you may need one to two dental visits for the treatment to be complete. In every dental procedure, the dentist will give local anesthesia to numb the gums. However, if you have dental phobia, the dentist can provide you with sedation to help you relax and reduce discomfort.

Gum Health Maintenance

Preventing a reoccurrence of gum disease is crucial. Apart from proper hygiene, you need to watch your brushing techniques, especially during the monthly menstrual cycle, as gums are sensitive. Also, use an electric, soft-bristled toothbrush to get rid of the plaques in hard to reach places.

Schedule an Appointment

Gum disease is treatable if detected early. Contact us or visit Kingwood Perfect Smile for periodontal treatment in Kingwood, if you suspect you have gum inflammation or irritation.