Gum disease, sometimes called periodontal disease, is a frequent ailment that affects the gums and jawbones that support the teeth. It can result in tooth loss and other major health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, numerous efficient periodontal therapies are available to aid in managing and controlling the condition.
Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning operation, is frequently the first stage of periodontal treatment. Plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line are removed during this process, and the tooth roots are smoothed to help keep bacteria from adhering to them. This procedure can aid in reducing swelling and accelerating gum repair.
The following are examples of popular periodontal procedures in addition to scaling and root planing:
- Antibiotics: In some circumstances, doctors may recommend antibiotics to help manage bacterial infections causing periodontal disease.
- Laser Therapy: Laser therapy eliminates contaminated tissue and encourages healing. It is a minimally invasive procedure.
- Bone grafting: To restore and fortify the bone that supports the teeth in severe cases of periodontal disease, bone grafting may be required.
- Gum grafting: Gum grafting is a surgical technique that covers exposed tooth roots with tissue taken from another mouth area. This procedure helps to lessen sensitivity and stop further damage.
- Pocket Reduction Surgery: To make the area simpler to clean and stop further damage, pocket reduction surgery includes lowering the size of the pockets between the teeth and gums.
- Dental implants: Dental implants may be used to replace teeth that have been lost owing to periodontal disease. Implants are a long-lasting and reliable treatment that can aid in regaining function and enhancing the smile’s beauty.
There are many advantages to periodontal therapy. Patients with properly managed periodontal disease can:
- Lower your risk of tooth loss: Periodontal disease is one of the major factors in adult tooth loss. Patients can help retain their natural teeth and prevent the need for more intrusive procedures like dental implants or dentures by treating the problem early.
- Enhance general health: Heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and periodontal disease have all been linked to periodontal disease. Therefore, patients can lessen their risk of developing these and other health issues by treating their diseases.
- Enhance the quality of life: Because periodontal disease can be uncomfortable and even painful, it can be challenging to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Patients can enhance their comfort and quality of life by treating the condition.
- Save money: Periodontal therapy is frequently less expensive compared to more intrusive procedures like dental implants or dentures. In addition, patients can prevent future, more expensive treatments by treating the condition early.
Overall, periodontal therapy is critical to preserving dental health and preventing tooth loss. It’s crucial to discuss your treatment choices with your dentist or periodontist at Morrison Dental Group if you have periodontal disease symptoms like bleeding gums or poor breath. You may manage the condition and benefit from a more radiant, healthy smile with the proper care.