Non-Surgical Gum Treatments

The gums, ligaments, and bone around the teeth form the foundation for ones teeth. All structures are also referred to as the periodontium. When the periodontium is not healthy, it jeopardizes the teeth just as a bad foundation would threaten the stability of a house. Signs of unhealthy periodontium (gum disease) may be as follows: gums that are red and bleed easily, persistent bad breath, gums that are pulled away from the tooth, loose teeth, and changes in the position or bite of the teeth. Any of these signs may mean something is wrong. With the proper care, however, it may be possible to return them to a healthy state. This is where appropriate gum treatments come in. If you’re having a problem, come in and see us so we can take care of it right away. The treatment usually involves a deep cleaning or root planing done under a local anesthetic, along with local antibiotic agents. If the gum disease gets too severe it may need to be treated through surgery or extraction. This is why it is important to get it treated at the first sign of a problem.

Prevent Periodontal Disease or Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is among the most common causes of tooth loss. Gum disease results when bacteria infect the gum area and produce gaps between the teeth. Unfortunately, periodontal disease may have already reached an advanced stage by the time you begin to notice symptoms. Fortunately, however, you can prevent gum disease; and even if it’s in the beginning stages and you catch the condition early, your dentist can treat it before you suffer tooth or bone loss.

Many people who experience tooth or gum discomfort avoid going to the dentist out of fear they’ll need surgery. Fortunately, there are non-surgical treatments available for patients in the early stages of gum or tooth disease.

Both healthy and unhealthy bacteria live in your mouth. The unhealthy bacteria found in plaque, the thin film that sticks to your teeth, combine with food you eat and harden to form tartar.

Plaque is the main cause of diseased gums, but such other factors as tobacco or grinding your teeth can increase the risk. In addition, diabetes and other medical conditions can lower resistance to infection. Such medications as steroids, high blood pressure drugs and chemotherapy can also affect the teeth and gums.

Gums that are sore, red or swollen or that bleed during brushing or flossing can be an early indication of disease. Only after the disease is in the advanced stages will you likely experience pain.

Periodontal Disease or Gum Disease Treatment

If the disease is in its early stages, there are non-surgical dental gum treatments that can save your teeth and gums from more serious problems. A thorough professional dental cleaning involves both scaling and root planing. These procedures are traditional methods of dental gum therapy. During these procedures, the dentist concentrates on one area, usually one-quarter of the mouth at a time, and numbs that area. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth’s surface. Root planing involves removing plaque and tartar and also smoothing the surface of the root. After scaling and root planning, the dentist will place Arestin, an antibiotic powder, inside the infected pockets. Arestin continues to fight the infection for up to three weeks following scaling and root planing.

Periodontal Laser Gum Treatment

An alternative form of dental gum therapy is the use of a periodontal laser. When the dentist uses a periodontal laser in conjunction with scaling and root planing, the patient can access the most advanced method of dental gum therapy available.