What Are Some Gum Disease Treatments?
Have you heard of gum disease, but don’t know exactly what it is? Clinically known as periodontal disease, gum disease is the inflammation and infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. In fact, nearly half of all adults in the United States have some stage of gum disease. Below is more information on how to treat gum disease if you think you may have it.
How Do I Know if I Have Gum Disease?
Healthy gums are firm and do not bleed or swell. Gum disease develops and progresses gradually, often without much pain. Because it develops slowly, it is important to be aware of the early signs and symptoms. Common symptoms of gum disease include red or inflamed gums, bleeding, soreness, bad breath, and pain when chewing.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by the buildup of dental plaque around the base of the teeth. Plaque contains many kinds of bacteria that can damage the gums. Risk factors that contribute to plaque buildup include poor oral hygiene, smoking or using tobacco, and chronic stress. Another factor that contributes to gum disease is genetics. Some people are more likely to have the type of oral bacteria that causes gum disease.
How is Gum Disease Treated?
When treated early, gum disease can be stopped and even reversed. Below are the most common and effective treatment options:
- Dental Cleaning and Improved Oral Hygiene: In its earliest stages, gum disease can be reversed with routine dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene. This approach eliminates harmful bacteria before the disease has a chance to progress. By brushing two to three times and flossing daily, you can stop the development and progression of gum disease.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that targets plaque and bacteria that have developed beneath the gums, where regular daily brushing cannot reach. This procedure is typically recommended for mild to moderate stages of gum disease.
- Pocket Reduction Surgery: For individuals with more advanced disease, pocket reduction surgery targets the removal of plaque and tartar deep under the gums. During the procedure, a periodontist places a small cut in the gums and creates a flap, allowing them to temporarily pull the gums away from the tooth roots. Next, they’ll clean the plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth roots. Once complete, they’ll close the cut in the gums with stitches.
- Bone Grafting: Dental bone grafting can be used to replace bone that has been lost due to gum disease. After the infection and bacteria are removed, grafting material is placed into areas where bone has broken down, allowing the body time to regenerate new bone.
- Gum Grafting: When gum tissue is lost, gum or tissue grafting surgery can be used to cover exposed tooth roots and restore the gum line with healthy tissue.
Gum disease is treatable with good oral hygiene and appropriate dental care. If you notice that your gums are bleeding, tender, or inflamed, you should see your dentist. Early detection is key to receiving timely treatment and potentially stopping gum disease progression.