3 Types of Gum Disease Treatment

General dentistry has several approaches to gum disease treatment. The goal is to prevent complications like tooth loss, relieve pain and discomfort, and restore the patient’s smile. Learning the basics of the most common types of gum disease treatment can help patients better understand why a specific approach is recommended for their oral health needs.

Understanding gum disease and its oral health impact

Gum problems tend to begin with gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease characterized by gum inflammation, redness, swelling, and occasional bleeding during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis can progress without treatment, eventually damaging the jawbone and tissues that support the teeth. Advanced gum disease can result in tooth mobility and even tooth loss.

Gum disease results from the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which harbor harmful bacteria that irritate and infect the gums. Risk factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. Beyond oral health, untreated gum disease has been linked to systemic issues from heart disease to diabetes, another reason why it is important to treat it promptly.

Types of gum disease treatment

While gingivitis may be reversible with non-invasive procedures, advanced gum disease often requires more intensive interventions. Here are three common types of gum disease treatment commonly recommended in general dentistry:

Deep cleaning: Scaling and root planing

A deep cleaning called scaling and root planing can effectively treat mild to moderate gum disease. This non-invasive treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the root surfaces (root planing) to prevent bacteria from reattaching. Conversely, the gums can easily reattach to smooth, clean teeth roots.

A dentist or dental hygienist may use special instruments, ultrasonic devices, or laser technology to thoroughly clean the affected areas during scaling and root planing. As a result of this procedure, patients often experience reduced gum inflammation, tighter gum attachment, and an improvement in overall gum health.

Antibiotic therapy for gum infections

Antibiotic therapy often works alongside other treatments to target the bacterial infection causing gum disease. Dentists may recommend systemic antibiotics in pill form, as well as local antibiotic gels or dissolvable strips to be applied directly to the affected gum tissue. This gum disease treatment aims to reduce infection, relieve inflammation, and improve gum pocket depth, enhancing the overall efficacy of other treatments.

Surgical gum disease treatments

For advanced gum disease that has caused significant damage to the gum tissue or supporting structures, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical gum disease treatments include the following techniques, each of which can address specific issues:

• Flap surgery. Lifts the gums to access and clean deeper pockets of infection.
• Bone grafting. Restores bone density and supports the teeth.
• Soft tissue grafting. Covers exposed tooth roots and restores the gum line.

Surgical treatments are typically reserved for advanced gum disease but can be highly effective in restoring oral health and function.

Schedule a consultation for gum disease treatment

By promptly addressing gum disease with professional gum disease treatment, patients can maintain healthy gums, strong teeth, and overall well-being. Whether the patient has a mild or advanced case of gum disease, there are effective treatments available to restore their oral health. Call our Houston general dentistry office today to learn more.

Request an appointment here: https://www.ashleysmiledental.com or call Ashley Smile Dental: Winifred Dike, DDS at (281) 990-3009 for an appointment in our Houston office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Houston, TX.