Your Best Guide to Gum Disease Treatment Solutions

Close-up image of a man's gums showing signs of inflammation, indicating a possible gum disease.

Gum disease can set off a cascade of problems that extend far beyond your mouth. Research has linked it to a range of serious illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

The good news is that gum disease is treatable and even reversible, if caught early. Thanks to advancements in dental care, a variety of effective treatment options are now available, ranging from nonsurgical procedures such as deep cleanings to surgical interventions such as flap surgery.

If you suspect that you have gum disease, this blog will guide you through the available treatment solutions, helping you find the best path to restoring your gum health.

 

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease (periodontal disease) occurs when the tissues that hold your teeth in place get infected. It starts when bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar residues from the food you consume, forming a sticky, colorless film (plaque) which, if not removed regularly, will turn into tartar. As tartar forms above and below your gumline, bacteria makes its way into your gums, causing them to weaken and form pockets. Bacteria pool in these pockets, causing damage to the tissues supporting your teeth.

Gum disease often stems from poor oral hygiene, although some people are susceptible to it even with proper brushing and flossing.

Gum disease occurs in two main stages:

  1. Gingivitis – This means your gum disease is just creeping in. When you have gingivitis, your gums appear red and swollen, and they may bleed easily, especially when you brush or floss.
  2. Periodontitis – This is the advanced form of periodontal disease. Left untreated, it can damage not only your gums but also the bone structures that support your teeth. Symptoms of periodontitis include bad breath, gum swelling, gum recession, tooth loosening, and tooth loss.

Gum disease can wreak havoc on not just your oral health but your overall health, as well.  Having untreated periodontal disease means you have ongoing inflammation in your body.  Inflammation occurs when the harmful bacteria in your mouth penetrates your gums and enters your bloodstream. It is essentially your body’s way of fighting off the ongoing infection. While beneficial in the short run, inflammation can eventually lead to the development of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease, among other serious conditions, if left unaddressed.

Early Gum Disease Treatment

Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care and professional treatment. Improving your oral hygiene (i.e., brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash regularly) can help eliminate plaque buildup and reduce inflammation. Professional cleanings are essential for removing tartar effectively and preventing the recurrence of gingivitis.

Advanced Gum Disease Treatment

If your gum disease has progressed beyond gingivitis, your dentist may recommend one or a combination of professional treatments. The choice between nonsurgical and surgical treatment options will depend on the severity of your periodontitis and the extent of gum and bone damage.

  1. Nonsurgical Treatments

If you have mild to moderate periodontitis, nonsurgical treatment might be all that you need to restore your gum health. The following treatments are aimed at addressing the infection, reducing inflammation, and preventing further damage.

  • Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) – This thorough cleaning process removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces to prevent bacteria from accumulating.
  • Antibiotic Treatments – Your dentist may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to help control the infection.

II.             Surgical Treatments

If your periodontitis has progressed beyond what nonsurgical treatments can manage, surgery may be necessary to restore your gum health. Here are the surgical treatment solutions available for gum disease.

  • Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery) – This involves lifting back your gums to remove tartar from deep pockets and suturing them back in place.
  • Bone Grafting – If bone loss has occurred, a graft made from natural or synthetic materials can help regenerate lost bone tissue.
  • Tissue Grafting – If you have thinning or receding gums, this treatment will cover your exposed tooth roots and help prevent your gums from receding further.
  • Guided Tissue Regeneration – This technique stimulates the regrowth of bone and gum tissue by placing a special membrane between the bone and gum tissue.
  • Laser-Assisted Periodontal Surgery – This treatment is often reserved for advanced periodontitis, but your dentist may recommend this even if you have a milder case, if it offers the best outcome for your oral health.

Gum Disease Treatment in Eugene, OR

For high-quality gum disease treatment in Eugene, OR, visit us here at 360 Dental. We offer a full spectrum of gum care services, ensuring we have a solution for every stage of gum disease.

Dr. Ari Binder, one of Eugene’s trusted dental experts, will work closely with you to help you find the most effective treatment with your unique needs in mind.

 

To book your appointment, use this secure form or call us at (541) 689-1645.

 

 

External Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21482-gum-periodontal-disease