Treatment Options for Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects millions of adults worldwide. It ranges from simple gum inflammation to severe disease that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications. Understanding the available treatment options empowers patients to make informed decisions about their oral health.

Understanding the available treatment options for gum disease empowers patients to make informed decisions about their oral health.

Understanding the Basics of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease begins with the formation of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar. Tartar buildup leads to gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease.

Gingivitis causes redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, especially during brushing or flossing. When left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. In periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria, but the response can break down bone and connective tissue. As the disease progresses, these pockets deepen, and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Without treatment, teeth may become loose and eventually fall out.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Dentists often recommend non-surgical treatments as the first line of defense against gum disease. These treatments focus on controlling the bacterial infection and promoting healing. One common procedure is scaling and root planing. During this procedure, the dentist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. They then smooth rough spots on the tooth root to help the gums reattach to the tooth. This process can be time-consuming and may require multiple visits.

Antibiotics can also play a role in treating periodontal disease. Dentists may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to help control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics include mouth rinses or gels that patients apply directly to the gum pockets. Oral antibiotics may be necessary for more acute or persistent infections. These medications could help reduce bacteria and inflammation, supporting the healing process.

Surgical Treatment Options

Surgery may become necessary for advanced gum disease when non-surgical treatments prove insufficient. Flap surgery, also known as pocket reduction surgery, is a common surgical option. During this procedure, the dentist lifts the gums back to remove tartar and bacteria from deep pockets. After cleaning the area, they secure the gums in place, reducing the pocket size. This procedure helps the gums fit snugly around the teeth, preventing further damage.

Bone grafts can repair bone destroyed by periodontitis. The dentist places fragments of the patient’s bone, donated bone, or synthetic bone in the affected area. These grafts serve as a platform for new bone growth, helping restore the stability of the teeth. Over time, the body replaces the graft material with its own bone, strengthening the jaw.

Soft tissue grafts, or gum grafts, address gum recession, a common consequence of advanced periodontal disease. The dentist takes tissue from the roof of the mouth or another source and attaches it to the affected site. This procedure covers exposed roots, reduces further gum recession, and improves the appearance of the gums.

Guided tissue regeneration encourages the growth of bone and gum tissue. During this procedure, the dentist places a small piece of mesh between the bone and gum tissue. The mesh prevents the gum tissue from growing into the bone area, allowing bone and connective tissue to regrow. This technique is often used in conjunction with flap surgery to enhance results.

Laser Therapy in Gum Disease Treatment

Laser therapy is a newer treatment option that offers a less invasive approach to treating gum disease. In laser therapy, the dentist uses a specialized laser to remove inflamed gum tissue around the root of the tooth. The laser targets and removes bacteria in deep pockets, reducing the risk of infection. This procedure also helps reduce bleeding, swelling, and discomfort, promoting faster healing.

Laser therapy offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods. It is less invasive, often resulting in less tissue damage and a quicker recovery time. Patients often experience less pain and discomfort, and the risk of infection is lower. Additionally, laser therapy can be more precise, targeting only the diseased tissue while preserving healthy tissue.

If you suffer from gum disease, Dr. Fabrizio Dall’olmo and his team are here to help. They offer a wide range of periodontal therapy and surgery treatment options. Contact their office today to schedule a consultation and learn more.

Articles By: Dr. Fabrizio Dall'Olmo