Benefits of Treating Periodontal Disease
By seeking treatment for periodontal disease, patients can experience the following benefits:
- Improved oral health
- Prevents tooth loss
- Reduces gum inflammation
- Halts disease progression
- Freshens breath
- Enhances smile appearance
- Reduces systemic health risks
- Boosts l well-being
Gum Disease Treatments
There are various gum disease treatment options available. However, the treatment you receive will depend on the severity of your oral health condition. Our dentist will examine the extent of your gum disease and recommend the treatment best for you.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are nonsurgical treatments that involve removing plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. During the procedure, a dental professional will use specialized tools to scrape away the buildup of bacteria and debris that cause gum disease.
- Scaling: During scaling, a dental hygienist or dentist uses special instruments to remove plaque and tartar (calculus) from the surfaces of the teeth, both above and below the gum line. This process helps eliminate bacteria, toxins, and calculus that contribute to gum inflammation and disease.
- Root Planing: Root planing focuses on smoothing the tooth roots and removing any rough areas or harmful bacteria deposits. This step aims to remove the bacterial byproducts and promote the reattachment of the gums to the tooth roots, facilitating gum healing and reducing the depth of periodontal pockets.
Antibiotics
If scaling and root planing alone aren’t enough to treat gum disease, you may be prescribed oral antibiotics to help eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. Antibiotics can be prescribed in pill form, mouthwash, or gel that can be applied directly to the gums. Your dentist will determine the best form of antibiotics for your individual needs.
Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser periodontal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment option that uses laser technology to remove infected gum tissue and promote the regeneration of healthy tissue. The dental laser can target and eliminate bacteria that are causing gum disease, without damaging healthy gum tissue. This treatment often requires less recovery time compared to traditional gum surgery.
Pocket Reduction (flap) Surgery
Pocket reduction surgery, also known as flap surgery, is a traditional surgical treatment option for moderate to severe gum disease. During the procedure, your dentist will make an incision in the gums to access the infected area and remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup. Then, the gums will be sutured to promote healing. This treatment can help reduce pocket depth and prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.
Bone and Gum Grafting
Bone grafting and gum grafting are surgical treatments used to restore the bone and gum tissue that has been lost due to periodontal disease. During the procedure, a dental professional will take bone and/or gum tissue from another area of the mouth or a donor and transplant it to the affected area. This can help stabilize the teeth and prevent further damage from gum disease.
Home Remedies
While there are home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of gum disease, they’re not an adequate replacement for professional dental care. As you wait for a dental appointment you may try any of the following remedies to alleviate discomfort:
- Saltwater rinse: Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and rinse your mouth with it for about 30 seconds. This can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
- Oil pulling: Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes before spitting it out. Oil pulling may help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth.
- Aloe vera gel: Apply pure aloe vera gel to your gums and massage gently. Aloe vera has antimicrobial properties and may help reduce inflammation.
- Tea tree oil: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and apply it to your gums. Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties and may help fight gum disease. However, it should be used with caution and in diluted form, as it can be strong and may cause irritation in some individuals.
- Turmeric gel: Mix turmeric powder with water to create a paste and apply it to your gums. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Dangers of Untreated Gum Disease
Untreated gum disease can cause a range of oral and dental health problems, including
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Bad breath
- Painful chewing
- Infections
- Jawbone damage
Contact our dentist in Virginia today if you have any questions or concerns about gum disease.
