Gum Disease Treatment

What is Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious oral health problems, including tooth loss and bone deterioration. Therefore, prompt treatment is essential to prevent further damage and preserve oral health.

Importance of Treating Gum Disease:

1. Prevention of Tooth Loss: Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Treating gum disease can help prevent the progression of the disease and preserve the supporting structures of the teeth, reducing the risk of tooth loss.
2. Preservation of Bone Structure: Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss in the jaw, which can compromise the stability of the teeth and contribute to tooth loss. Treatment helps prevent further bone deterioration and preserves the bone structure necessary for tooth support.
3. Improvement of Oral Health: Treating gum disease improves overall oral health by reducing inflammation, controlling infection, and promoting healing of the gum tissues. This can help alleviate symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession.
4. Prevention of Systemic Health Issues: Research has shown that gum disease is associated with an increased risk of various systemic health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. By treating gum disease, you may also reduce the risk of developing these systemic health issues.

Treatment of Gum Disease:

The treatment of gum disease depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

1. Non-surgical Treatments:
   • Professional Dental Cleanings: Dental cleanings, also known as scaling and root planning, are performed by dental hygienists to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and below the gumline.
   • Antibacterial Mouthwashes: Prescription mouthwashes containing antimicrobial agents may be recommended to help control bacterial growth and reduce inflammation.
   • Topical Antibiotics: Antibiotic gels or creams may be applied directly to the gum pockets to help control bacterial infection and promote healing.
2. Surgical Treatments:
   • Pocket Reduction Surgery: In cases of advanced gum disease, where pockets have formed between the gums and teeth, surgical procedures may be necessary to reduce pocket depth and remove bacteria and diseased tissue.
   • Gum Grafting: Gum grafting procedures may be performed to cover exposed tooth roots and replenish gum tissue lost due to gum recession.
   • Bone Grafting: In severe cases of bone loss, bone grafting procedures may be performed to regenerate lost bone and support the teeth.
3. Ongoing Maintenance: Following gum disease treatment, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential to monitor the condition of your gums and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.

Treating gum disease early can help prevent further damage and preserve your oral health. If you notice signs or symptoms of gum disease, such as swollen or bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, it’s essential to see your dentist promptly for evaluation and treatment.