Gum disease is a serious condition that needs immediate and comprehensive treatment once it is diagnosed. Without the proper treatment, the disease can progress from treatable inflammation to pain, bad breath, bone loss, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
If you are suffering from gum disease, it’s important to consider your treatment options. Several procedures are available that can bring your gums back to optimal health. For those who have more severe versions of gum disease, treatment might mean surgery, but we will be sure to consider nonsurgical treatment options before designing a plan that includes more invasive procedures.
Periodontists are dental specialists that have several years of additional training and experience after graduation from dental school which make them uniquely qualified to assess your condition, and then prescribe the treatment that is best for your situation, non-surgical or surgical.
What Nonsurgical Options Are Available?
The most common form of gum disease treatment is scaling and root planing, a nonsurgical procedure that aims to remove all the diseased tissue from the gums and teeth. Scaling and root planing involves removing bacteria from the surfaces of the teeth and root planing involves smoothing up the root surfaces to help the gum reattach to the teeth.
Other nonsurgical treatment options include antibiotics, which can help kill the bacteria that has lodged itself in hard-to-reach places.
Your periodontist will also instruct you on the best ways to care for your teeth at home. Good oral hygiene practices are essential to a healthy, long-lasting smile. Brushing, flossing and the use of an oral rinse can significantly decrease your chances of a gum disease diagnosis. Your periodontist can show you the proper ways to brush and floss as well as recommend the right brands for your needs.
Stop Gum Disease Before Surgery is Necessary
In many cases, nonsurgical gum disease treatment is enough to keep the infection from deteriorating, but it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your periodontist regularly to keep the disease under control.
Call Today to Learn More!
If you would like more information about gum disease treatment, or to find the right nonsurgical treatment method for you, contact Kenneth M. Lubritz, DDS, Periodontics & Dental Implants and schedule an appointment. We can help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful!