Understanding gum disease will help in its prevention. Gum disease is a common oral health condition that affects many adults in the United States. It ranges from mild inflammation to severe damage to gums and bones. Treatment will be decided depending on the stage and severity of the disease. These are some suggestions on how to treat gum disease.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Gingivitis can be treated with routine dental cleanings performed by a dental hygienist and can often be reversed. Plaque and tartar are removed from tooth surfaces and above the gumline during cleaning. It is advised to schedule cleanings every 6 months, or more frequently if gum disease is present. X-rays once a year are also recommended.
Improving Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is essential for gum disease treatment. This includes brushing teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and flossing once a day. Regular oral care will help prevent plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that causes gum infection. In early stages like gingivitis, improved home care alone may reverse the condition.
Scaling and Root Planing
When gum disease advances, dentists use a non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planing. This is a deeper cleaning than a regular cleaning. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are often used alongside scaling and root planing to enhance effectiveness. Antibiotics are prescribed to control bacterial infections. They can be in the form of oral medications or topical applications like gels or medicated mouth rinses.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle adjustments can support treatment success. It is important to eat a balanced diet and to take care of your health conditions, such as diabetes, to improve gum health outcomes. Quitting smoking is critical, as tobacco use is a major risk factor.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical procedures may be necessary for severe cases of periodontitis:
- Flap Surgery: Gums are lifted back to allow deep cleaning and then sutured tightly around the teeth.
- Bone Grafts: Grafts are used to restore bone loss due to infection.
- Soft Tissue Grafts: During this procedure, tissue is taken from another part of the mouth to reinforce thin or receding gums.
Patients with periodontitis may need more frequent dental visits (every 3-4 months) to monitor gum health and prevent recurrence. For you to have long-term success, you must make a commitment to both professional and home care routines. Early detection is key to preventing progression and preserving oral health. Regular dental visits and proper care are imperative.
Reach out for support
To prevent gingivitis and more serious dental conditions, you must commit to regular dentist visits. If you have been diagnosed with gingivitis, following your dentist's suggestions could turn the condition around and improve your gum health. Expect a discussion with your dentist about your visit and a treatment plan, if needed. Please contact our office if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment.
