Gum Disease : Treatment Options

Gum disease or Periodontists, is a medical condition that affects the teeth after gum inflation or gingivitis. Gingivitis precedes gum disease and is considered a warning for future tooth decay. Symptoms of gingivitis include inflamed and red gums, bleeding during tooth brushing, and irritable gums. Gingivitis combined with other illnesses can contribute to teeth shifting or falling out of the mouth.

When gingivitis is left untreated, it leads to gum decay or disease. In this condition, the bone and gums pulls away from the teeth and forms pockets. These pockets begin to collect leftover food matter and other debris, which eventually leads to the development of gum disease. Gum line infections can also affect your overall health. For instance a virus can enter a bleeding gum and affect the health of your heart.  So the bottom line is that gum disease should not be ignored. Seek medical attention from a dentist or periodontist right away.

There are many treatment options available to treat gum disease. Some of these are:

1.    Non-Surgical

Most patients with gum disease do not require surgery. Periodontists and dentists are bound by medical ethics to seek out the least intrusive method of treatment. Scaling and even root planting are some of the common non surgical methods. These treatments can remove tartar and plaque from periodontal pockets. It also smoother the roots of the teeth. Most of the time this is enough to get your healthy teeth and gums back.

2.    Surgical Treatment

This treatment option is pursued when non-surgical methods are proven ineffective. Four gum disease surgery treatments may be pursued. These are regenerative procedures, dental crown lengthening, gum drafting, and pocket reduction. Any one of these options is pursued when the dentist feels that non invasive methods are infective, usually when the gum tissue is very unhealthy. 

3.    Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a growing treatment option for periodontists. The use of lasers is increasing in dental treatments, and many are considering using lasers for the treatment of gum disease. Many dentists use lasers with traditional scaling as well as root planning. Dental research has indicated that this method significantly reduces bleeding during surgery. Another benefit of reduced bleeding is that it reduces the likelihood of developing a secondary infection.

When it comes to seeking periodontal treatment, it is in your best interest to talk to your dentist about all possible options, including laser treatments. Make sure you conduct research on your own and seek out a second opinion before deciding upon a periodontist and treatment option. It is important to also remember that even after completing a periodontal treatment; you must practice good oral hygiene, eat a balanced diet, abstain from smoking, and avoid grinding or clenching your teeth.