Periodontitis, also referred to as gum disease, is a chronic infection of the gum tissue caused by bacteria that accumulate in plaque and tartar on your teeth and in periodontal pockets. But how do you treat periodontitis? In this article, we discuss the types of periodontal disease and their treatment methods.

 

How Do You Treat Periodontitis?

Treatment methods for gum disease vary depending on its stages:

• Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease
• Aggressive and chronic periodontitis, advanced stages of gum disease
• Periodontitis, as a manifestation of systemic diseases, often begins at a young age, accompanying such conditions as heart disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes.
• Necrotizing periodontal disease most commonly happens when systemic conditions, such as HIV infection or immunosuppression, are present.

 

Gingivitis Treatment Methods

As we mentioned earlier, gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Its symptoms include:

• Red and swollen gums
• Gums that appear soft and smooth instead of being firm and textured
• Gums that easily bleed when you brush and floss your teeth
• Gum soreness or sensitivity

Gingivitis is the only type of gum disease that can be fully treated and reversed. However, accurate and timely diagnosis is key to the success of the treatment. That is why we recommend consulting your dentist immediately if you notice any of the symptoms we listed above. Also, the first signs of gingivitis might go unnoticed by patients. Thus, opting for bi-yearly dental checkups will help prevent overlooking the issue. 

Treating gingivitis includes the following:

 

Improving Oral Hygiene

The first and foremost priority when treating any type of gum disease is improving personal daily oral hygiene, since the primary causes of gum disease are plaque, tartar, and bacteria that live in them. There are several rules we recommend following:

• Brush your teeth for two full minutes on both sides and along the chewing surface. Pay special attention to brushing along the gumline, but be gentle to avoid hurting the gums.
• Floss your teeth gently but thoroughly every evening.
• Add a water flosser as the first step in your routine to enhance your hygiene.
• Use fluoride toothpaste to help fight off bacteria in the mouth.

 

Professional Cleanings and Fluoride Treatments

Professional cleanings and fluoride treatments are essential steps in preventing gum disease. During the cleaning, your dentist uses special tools to remove tartar, which can not be removed by a toothbrush. Fluoride treatments remineralise the enamel of your teeth and help reduce bacterial growth.

 

Periodontitis Treatment Methods

Unfortunately, periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease, can not be fully treated. But it can be effectively controlled and kept from progressing and causing more oral and general health issues. Apart from improved oral hygiene, which remains a number one priority, there are several other options your doctor might employ when treating gingivitis:

 

Professional Cleanings and Fluoride Treatments

More frequent professional cleanings and fluoride treatments might be recommended (every 3 to 4 months).

 

Scaling and Root Planing 

Scaling and root planing can also be referred to as a deep cleaning. The objective of this procedure is to remove tartar from underneath the gum line (periodontal pockets) and to prompt the gum to reattach to the tooth. 

 

Medication

Antibacterial oral medication can be prescribed to reduce the infection and inflammation in the gums. It is typically combined with other treatment methods.

 

Laser Treatments

Laser procedures can be used to remove the infected tissue and promote its faster regeneration.

 

Pocket Reduction Surgery

Pocket reduction surgery reduces the size of enlarged periodontal pockets to prevent further tartar accumulation and loss of bone density.

 

Bone and Gum Grafting and Guided Tissue Regeneration

Bone and gum grafting, along with guided tissue regeneration, are typically used in more advanced stages of gum disease, especially when it spreads to the jawbone and causes loss of bone density. These methods typically involve placing artificial or naturally derived tissue into areas of damage to prompt regeneration. 

 

The Pinhole Surgical Technique

The pinhole surgical technique is a cosmetic procedure typically performed after the infection has been reduced. It allows for repositioning the gum tissue to visually improve receding gums. 

 

Treat Gum Disease at LA Wilshire Perio

Do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist at LA Wilshire Perio to begin your gum disease treatment. Remember that the earlier you start your treatment, the better the chances are for eliminating or controlling the issue.