What Are Some Gum Disease Treatments?
Gum disease, a bacterial infection also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem for adults that can cause serious long-term issues if you do not seek treatment in a timely manner.
Gum disease occurs in two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Early symptoms include sensitive, irritated, and bleeding gums. Left untreated, gum disease can become advanced, causing significant gum recession, loose teeth, tooth loss, and even bone loss.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky, bacteria-filled substance that builds up on and around your teeth. If you are not thoroughly cleaning plaque with good daily oral hygiene habits, your gums will likely become inflamed and possibly infected.
Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, develops following excessive plaque build-up on your teeth and around your gum line. The bacteria in plaque produce acid that irritates gum tissue, causing your gums to become inflamed. Left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis.
Periodontitis is chronic inflammation that causes gum tissue to separate from the root of the tooth, creating pockets under the gum line where bacteria thrive. The result is inflammation and infection that spreads to the ligaments and bone underneath the gums. Over time, the bone deteriorates, and teeth can loosen, eventually leading to tooth loss.
The first sign of gingivitis is swollen, red, and inflamed gums that bleed when you brush or floss. If you notice any of the following symptoms, gingivitis may have advanced to periodontitis:
- Shrinking or receding gums
- Visible roots that make your teeth appear longer
- Changes in how your teeth fit together (your bite)
- Bad breath
- Sensitive, shifting, or loose teeth
If you have poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, or other systemic diseases, or you are on a medication that reduces saliva flow, you are at risk for gum disease. Other risk factors include smoking, vaping, or tobacco use; hormonal changes in girls or women, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause; and genetics.
Non-Surgical Treatment
The first step in treating gum disease is a conservative, non-surgical approach called scaling and root planing. Using a special tool called a scaler, your dentist or dental hygienist scrapes and removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and root surfaces. The next step is smoothing the surfaces to prevent further bacteria build-up and help your gums reattach to your teeth.
A few weeks later, your dentist will examine your gums to see whether they have properly healed and to determine if further treatment is necessary.
Surgical Treatment
You may need periodontal pocket reduction if your gum tissue has not properly attached to your teeth after scaling and planing. Deep pockets at the gum line are very difficult to clean. Your dental provider surgically removes damaged gum tissue and smooths areas of damaged bone so your gum tissue can reattach to healthy bone.
A gum graft may be necessary if you have exposed roots due to gum recession. Your dental provider may remove tissue from your palate, or they may use donor tissue to cover the roots of one or more teeth. Covering exposed roots helps reduce sensitivity, protects your roots from decay, and helps prevent further gum recession and bone loss.
Good Oral Care After Your Treatment
After treatment, it is essential that you are diligent in practicing good oral hygiene so you maintain the benefits of the procedure. Brush at least twice daily, floss at least once a day, and see your dentist regularly for routine examination and professional cleaning. If you fail to maintain good oral hygiene, you risk further issues with your gums.
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