Gum Disease Treatment

Are you noticing bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession? The Doreen Dentist offers solutions that address the root cause of gum disease.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease happens when plaque and tartar accumulate on your teeth. This buildup causes your gums to react to the bacteria, resulting in redness, swelling, and tenderness. You might also notice your gums bleeding when you brush or floss. This condition, in its initial stage is commonly known as gingivitis.

What is Gum Disease Treatment?

Treating gum disease involves various dental procedures aimed at reducing infection and repairing tissues damaged by periodontal disease. These procedures are typically performed by periodontists, although general dentists may also handle milder cases of gum disease.

Addressing gum disease promptly gives you a better chance of maintaining long-term oral health. In its initial stage, gum disease can be reversed. However, if it progresses, it can damage your gums and the supporting bone. This damage creates gaps, or periodontal pockets, around your teeth, which can lead to:

Non-surgical Procedures for Treating Gum Disease

Deep dental cleaning

This removes plaque and tartar on your root surfaces.

Antibiotics

Where certain antibiotics are placed in between your gums and teeth to clear infection.

Dental prophylaxis

Which refers to a routine dental cleanup that is encouraged twice a year.

Surgical Procedures for Treating Gum Disease

Gum grafting

Since gum recession is common in gum disease, your own gum tissue is grafted where your gums have receded.

Bone grafting

Using your own bone or a synthetic one, areas damaged by gum disease is rebuilt.

Pocket reduction surgery

After creating incisions on your gum line, the tartar is then removed from the root surfaces of your teeth.

Benefits of Gum Disease Treatment

The benefits of treating gum disease far exceed the drawbacks. If left untreated, gum disease will persist in its destructive course, causing ongoing infection, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. However, with timely treatment, you can:

Remove harmful bacteria from your mouth
Prevent bone loss in your jaw
Eliminate bad breath
Achieve healthier gums that are no longer red, swollen, or tender
Lower your risk of stroke, heart disease, and various other health issues

Frequently asked questions

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a condition involving the tissues that support the teeth. A dentist can assess your gums and explain any findings during a dental examination.

What are common signs that I should have my gums checked?

Changes such as bleeding, tenderness, swelling or concerns about the appearance of your gums are reasons to speak with a dentist. An examination is needed to understand what may be causing the change.

How is gum disease assessed?

The dentist can examine the gums, teeth and surrounding tissues and may take other measurements or records if needed to understand your individual situation.

What treatment options are available for gum concerns?

Treatment depends on what the dentist finds during the assessment. The dentist can explain the available options and why a particular approach may be considered.

Can I ask about bleeding gums at a routine appointment?

Yes. Tell the dentist if you have noticed bleeding or another change in your gums so they can assess the area and discuss it with you.

Will I need ongoing appointments for gum care?

The need for follow up appointments depends on your individual gum health and the treatment plan discussed with your dentist.

What can I do at home if I am concerned about my gums?

Continue your usual oral care unless your dentist has advised otherwise, and arrange an assessment if you have concerns. Your dentist can provide advice based on what they find.

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Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.