The treatment objectives for gum disease are to help reattach gums and teeth, decrease swelling, the extent of the pockets and chance of infection, and stop the progression of the disease.
You can choose various treatment options depending on the severity of the gum disease and how you have responded to treatments in the past. The treatment options range from nonsurgical treatments (to control the growth of bacteria) and surgery (to rebuild the supportive tissues). The main aim of treatment is to manage the infection. Your dentist will assess the problem to determine the best place to begin.
Deep Cleaning
The initial treatment option for gum diseases is to perform a careful deep, thorough cleaning. Contrary to regular cleaning, which typically takes place just above the gum line, deep cleaning takes place below the gum line.
The dentist performs a procedure known as scaling. It involves scraping tartar off both above and below the gum line (root planing). It's when the rough surfaces of your teeth' roots are smoothed, which helps your gums reconnect to the tooth.
Medication
There is no cream or pill that can instantaneously stop or prevent gum diseases. However, your dentist might prescribe medications in your treatment. There are many options to choose from:
Antibiotic Gel
It is spread over gum pockets following a deep cleaning to fight the spread of infection.
Antiseptic Microspheres or Antiseptic Chips
You insert these tiny gels into pockets within your gums. They release medications slowly as time passes to reduce the size of your pocket and eliminate bacteria.
Enzyme Suppressor
You take enzyme suppressors following a thorough cleaning to stop certain enzymes in the mouth that break down your gum tissue.
Oral Antibiotics
If you have more severe infections, you need to consume antibiotic tablets.
Surgery
If deep cleaning can't solve the issue, it may be necessary to dig deeper to address the issue. Your dentist may recommend:
Gum Graft Procedure
To stop bone loss and tooth decay, a surgeon takes tissue from another area in the mouth, such as the palate, and covers exposed roots by grafting it to the affected region.
Flap Procedure
Your gums are elevated so that the surgeon can reach the tartar beneath the gum line. They stitch your gum back in place, making sure it's tightly around your tooth to prevent tartar from accumulating. Your dentist could also suggest antimicrobial mouthwash to apply to your mouth as part of your regular brushing routine to control bacterial growth.
Please reach out to our dental practice in Pleasanton, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist Pleasanton CA, Dr. Dogra. Please call us at (925) 600-9006 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.