Periodontics: Treatments for Gum Disease

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the supporting structures of teeth. Gum disease is a bacterial infection, and without periodontics treatment, it can potentially result in tooth loss because it compromises the structures supporting the teeth. Therefore, dentists usually check for early warning signals that patients may miss. Periodontal treatment may be recommended if indications of problems appear.

Periodontics: Treatment options for gum disease

Many options are available for periodontics treatment for gum disease, but the objective is always the same: to repair damaged tissues. Gum disease or periodontal disease may progress from the gums to the bone holding the teeth, and in worse cases, tooth loss can result. Deep cleanings to remove plaque and calculus (tartar) from under the gum line, as well as surgical restoration of damaged gum and bone tissue, are all viable treatments for gum disease.

A periodontal treatment includes both surgical and non-surgical procedures to repair the tooth's supporting tissues and prevent tooth loss. They include:

Scaling and root planing

These deep-cleaning methods are some of the most effective ways to combat gum disease. Using hand scalers and ultrasonic tools, the dentist can eliminate plaque and calculus under the gum tissues.

Gum grafting

This procedure is done to restore damaged gum tissues and consequently protect tooth roots. This is done by grafting healthy gum tissue from one area of the mouth to another or by utilizing donor tissue that has been treated in a lab.

Periodontal plastic surgery

The term "plastic" here refers to any reshaping treatment that improves the look of the gum tissues when associated with surgery.

Periodontal laser therapy

The use of lasers to remove unhealthy or infected gum tissue has many benefits over traditional surgery, including reduced pain and gum shrinkage.

Crown lengthening surgery

This is a surgical treatment in which the tooth structure under the gum and bone tissue is exposed, either for aesthetic purposes (to make the teeth seem longer and the smile less gummy) or to assist in placing a new dental crown.

Dental implants

A titanium dental implant is the preferred technique of tooth replacement nowadays. The metal post is inserted under the gum line and into the jawbone via a minor surgical operation. Following that, the implant is connected to a natural-looking dental crown visible above the gum line and indistinguishable from a natural tooth. Dental implant placement is generally necessary if the patient has suffered tooth loss due to gum disease.

What patients can do

Considering dental plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease, brushing and flossing properly every day is essential. Scrubbing, on the other hand, may cause gum recession. The dentist can recommend proper ways to clean the teeth.

Certain areas of the mouth are unreachable to a toothbrush and floss, so frequent professional cleanings at the dentist's office are essential. Early symptoms of gum disease may be identified during a routine dental checkup — before patients notice them. The dentist will provide immediate treatment to prevent complications.

The bottom line

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you need to seek periodontics treatment as soon as possible. The dentist will perform any required examination and determine the appropriate treatment option.

Request an appointment here: https://www.cosmeticdentistoffice.com or call Rachel Cole DDS PC at (503) 248-1114 for an appointment in our Portland office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Periodontics in Portland, OR.