Gum Treatment

Gum Treatment

Gum treatment, or periodontal treatment, is aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. It involves various dental procedures and interventions to restore gum health and prevent the progression of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and systemic health issues if left untreated.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of gum disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include:

  • Gum Inflammation: Red, swollen, or tender gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing.
  • Gum Recession: The gums may recede or pull away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots and creating pockets between the gums and teeth.
  • Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath (halitosis) that does not improve with oral hygiene measures or mouthwash use.
  • Gum Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity or discomfort in the gums, especially when eating, drinking, or brushing teeth.
  • Loose or Mobile Teeth: Teeth that feel loose or shift in position due to loss of gum and bone support.
  • Pus Formation: Pus may develop between the teeth and gums or at the gum line, indicating an active infection.
  • Changes in Bite: Changes in the alignment or fit of the teeth when biting down, which may indicate bone loss and gum recession.

Treatments:

Gum treatment involves various procedures and interventions to manage gum disease and restore gum health. Common treatments may include:

  • Professional Dental Cleaning: Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) performed by a dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and bacteria from the teeth and below the gum line.
  • Periodontal Maintenance: Regular follow-up appointments for ongoing monitoring, professional cleaning, and maintenance of gum health.
  • Antibacterial Therapy: Antibacterial mouth rinses or gels may be prescribed to reduce oral bacteria and control infection in the gums.
  • Pocket Reduction Surgery: Surgical intervention to reduce pocket depths and remove diseased tissue from the gums to promote healing and attachment of healthy gum tissue.
  • Gum Grafting: Surgical procedure to repair receding gums by grafting tissue from another area of the mouth onto the affected gums.
  • Bone Grafting: Surgical procedure to augment or regenerate bone tissue in areas where bone loss has occurred due to advanced gum disease.
  • Laser Therapy: Non-surgical or surgical laser treatment to remove diseased gum tissue, disinfect periodontal pockets, and promote gum healing.

Effective gum treatment requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes of gum disease and promotes gum healing and regeneration. Patients with symptoms of gum disease should seek prompt evaluation and treatment from a qualified dentist or periodontist to prevent further progression of the disease and maintain optimal gum health. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for early detection and management of gum disease, ensuring long-term oral health and wellness.