Gum Disease Treatment

Gum Disease Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most prevalent but serious diseases of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. If the disease is not treated, it can result in the loss of teeth and other health complications. This article will explain all the aspects of treatment regarding gum disease, starting from its causes and signs up to the prevailing and efficient treatment modalities.

Understanding Gum Disease

The primary cause of gum disease is the development of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats both the teeth and gums. Unless removed by regular cleaning through brushing and flossing, plaque eventually forms into tartar. The result is inflammation and infection. The two primary stages of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis
It is characterized by swelling of the gums, which become red and easily bleed, especially when brushing. Fortunately, this condition is curable if good oral hygiene practices are followed.

Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, periodontitis results. During this stage, the inflammation has moved further into the teeth-supporting structures. This condition eventually results in gum recession, pockets between the teeth and gums, and loss of teeth.

Symptoms

Symptoms are meant to be noticed to allow the disease its early treatment. The common signs include:

The red, swollen, bleeding gums
Unelderly bad breath
Loose or shifting teeth
Receding gums
Pain while chewing
Changes in bite or tooth alignment
If you experience any of these symptoms, immediate consultation with a dental professional is important.

Gum Disease Risk Factors

There are numerous risk factors that can summon gum disease.

Poor oral hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up. 

Smoking: Tobacco use is highly linked with gum disease. 

Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can affect the gums. 

Certain medical conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders can make you more prone to it. 

Medications: Some medications can decrease saliva flow; saliva is important for oral health. These risk factors, if understood, may be prevented through precautionary measures.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is very crucial for proper treatment. Your dentist will thoroughly inspect your mouth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the disease. He may also measure the depth of the pocket between your teeth and gums to determine the severity.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical treatments are found to be very effective in the case of mild to moderate gum diseases. They involve:

Professional Cleaning
A dental professional will perform a deep clean, also known as scaling and root planing. This process removes plaque and tartar beneath the gum line to aid in reducing inflammation.

Improved Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene should be performed correctly after treatment. Dentists may recommend some specific special brushing and flossing technique to ensure the best care.

Antimicrobial Treatment
Topical or oral antibiotics can be prescribed for bacterial infection treatment and swelling reduction.

Surgical Treatment Alternatives

Gum surgical procedure may be required in the case of advanced gum disease. Included are:

Flap Surgery
During flap surgery, the gums are pulled back to remove the tartar deposited. The gums are then stitched in position to fit snugly around the teeth; this reduces pocket size.

Bone Grafting
In this case, if bones that support the teeth have been damaged then a bone graft may be necessary. This is done by adding bone material to the affected area to facilitate regeneration.

Guided Tissue Regeneration
This procedure involves using a special membrane which guides the regeneration of new bone and gum tissue to aid in rebuilding supportive structures around your teeth.

Prevention through Life Style Changes

Preventing gum disease requires a number of lifestyle changes:

Quit Smoking: The abandonment of tobacco means a lot to good health regarding gums.
Healthy Diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals has healthy teeth and a mouth, too.
Regular Dental Visits: Regular visits to dentists at least twice a year will provide professional cleaning and checks
Proper Oral Hygiene: Proper oral hygiene consists of everyday two-time brushing of the teeth and everyday flossing with the aim of getting rid of plaque, preventing any type of tartar.

Conclusion

Gum disease is a preventable and curable illness but brings potential impact on oral health and general health. Understanding causes, symptoms, and available treatments of gum disease provides one with knowledge in taking necessary steps towards the protection of gums. If you suspect that you're suffering from the disease, contact your dental care provider for an examination and treatment plan that's specifically designed for you. Remember, good oral hygiene and periodic dental visits are the best protections against gum disease.