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In short, gum disease is a common but treatable infection that can lead to tooth loss if ignored, making early intervention critical.
- Early detection is key. Catching gum disease in the gingivitis stage allows for easier, non-surgical treatment options.
- Professional cleanings are vital. Routine dental visits remove hardened tartar that brushing and flossing at home cannot reach.
- Advanced treatments exist. Procedures like scaling and root planing or surgical options can effectively manage severe periodontitis.
Effective gum disease treatment is essential for maintaining oral health and preventing tooth loss. Many individuals do not realize they have periodontal disease until it reaches an advanced stage. Understanding the facts about treatment options can help patients take control of their dental health.
This guide explores the various stages of gum disease and the medical interventions available. It also covers prevention strategies and the importance of professional care.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — to build up on the teeth and harden.
This can eventually become tartar with time. A dental professional can remove tartar during a dental cleaning.
The Stages of Gum Disease
There are two main stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Gingivitis: This is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. At this stage, the disease is usually reversible with daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis. In this stage, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called pockets) that become infected.
Why Is Gum Disease Treatment Necessary?
Ignoring the signs of gum disease can lead to serious health complications beyond the mouth. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place.
Without timely gum disease treatment, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
Systemic Health Connections
Research suggests a link between gum disease and other health issues. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.
A study published in the Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine indicates that individuals with severe periodontitis may face a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Maintaining gum health is therefore crucial for overall well-being.
Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that researchers have uncovered potential links between gum disease and other serious health conditions. These include diabetes and stroke.
Non-Surgical Gum Disease Treatment Options
The first line of defense often involves non-surgical procedures. These are less invasive and can be very effective for early to moderate periodontitis.
Scaling and Root Planing
This is a deep-cleaning procedure. It involves two distinct steps:
- Scaling: The dentist or hygienist removes all the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and below the gumline.
- Root Planing: The provider smooths out your teeth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth.
Root planing is significantly more intensive than a standard cleaning.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can be used to control bacterial infection. They may be used in combination with scaling and root planing.
- Topical antibiotics: These include antibiotic mouth rinses or gels containing doxycycline (Atridox) inserted into the space between the tooth and gum.
- Oral antibiotics: These are tablets or capsules taken by mouth to eliminate infection-causing bacteria.
Surgical Gum Disease Treatment Options
If you have advanced periodontitis, gum tissue may not respond to non-surgical treatments and good oral hygiene. In such cases, dental surgery may be required.
Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)
During this procedure, the periodontist makes tiny incisions in your gum so a section of gum tissue can be lifted back. This exposes the roots for more effective scaling and root planing.
Because periodontitis often causes bone loss, the underlying bone may be recontoured before the gum tissue is sutured back in place. This makes it easier to keep these areas clean and maintain healthy gums.
Soft Tissue Grafts
When you lose gum tissue to periodontal disease, your gumline recedes, which may need to be repaired at least partially. This is done by getting a tissue graft from the roof of your palate or a donor and attaching it to the area with the receding gums.
This can help reduce further gum recession, cover exposed roots, and give your teeth a more pleasing appearance.
Bone Grafting
This procedure is performed when gum disease has destroyed the bone surrounding your tooth root and holding it in place. The graft may be composed of small fragments of your own bone, or the bone may be synthetic or donated.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
This allows the bone that was destroyed by bacteria to grow back. In one approach, the dentist can place a special piece of biocompatible fabric between the existing bone and the tooth.
Preventing the Need for Gum Disease Treatment
Prevention is always better than a cure. Establishing a robust oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent gingivitis and periodontitis.
Daily Oral Hygiene
- Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily: Cleaning between teeth removes plaque that a toothbrush cannot reach.
- Use mouthwash: A therapeutic mouthwash can help reduce plaque and prevent or reduce gingivitis.
Regular Dental Visits
You should schedule a check-up and dental cleaning in Eugene, OR, at least every six months. If you have risk factors that increase your chance of developing periodontitis — such as dry mouth, taking certain medications, or smoking — you may need professional cleaning more often.
How Do Lifestyle Choices Affect Gum Health?
Lifestyle factors play a significant role in the development and progression of gum disease. Smoking is the most significant risk factor associated with the development of periodontitis.
Smoking can lower the chances of successful treatment. It weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off a gum infection. Furthermore, smoking makes it harder for your gums to heal once they have been damaged.
Diet and Nutrition
A diet low in important nutrients can compromise the body’s immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infection. Obesity has also been linked to periodontal disease.
Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support gum health. Vitamin C is particularly important for maintaining the integrity of gum tissue.
Schedule Your Gum Disease Treatment in Eugene, OR, Today
If you notice signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums or bad breath, do not delay seeking professional advice.
At 360 Dental, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to help you maintain a healthy smile. Our team can assess your gum health and recommend the appropriate gum disease treatment.
Contact us today at (541) 689-1645 or request an appointment online to take the first step toward better oral health.
