Gum Disease Therapy

Gum disease takes two forms. Gingivitis, the milder form, causes inflammation and can usually be cleared up with a professional cleaning. Periodontitis, the more advanced form, affects the gums and the bones that support the teeth. Good oral hygiene practices are a vital part of treatment; many dental therapies, surgical and non-surgical, can help manage gum disease.

Scaling and Root Planing

• Scaling involves the removal of tartar and bacteria on the surface of the teeth and under the gums. This procedure is done with dental instruments or an ultrasonic device. Root planing smoothes the surface of the root, preventing further accumulation of tartar. The two techniques are often combined.

Antibiotics

• Gum disease can promote the growth of bacteria in the pockets of the gums. Antibiotics are sometimes necessary and may be administered orally or topically. Topical applications are more common in the form of antibiotic mouth rinses or threads or gels containing antibiotics that are placed between the teeth and gums. Oral antibiotics are usually a supplement if topical applications are not sufficient.

Flap Surgery

• During flap surgery, gum tissue is lifted to expose the roots for sufficient scaling and planing. Bone loss has usually occurred at this point, and remaining bone is recontoured before the gum tissue is put back in place, reducing pockets where bacteria can thrive. The procedure takes about one to three hours and requires local anesthesia.

Soft Tissue Grafts

• Periodontitis results in a loss of gum tissue, causing the gumline to recede and exposing the roots of the teeth. Damaged tissue is replaced by grafting tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaching it to the damaged areas. This procedure helps stop gum recession and can also enhance the teeth cosmetically.

Bone Grafts and Guided Tissue Regeneration

• Advanced gum disease can destroy the bones supporting the teeth. Bone grafts can replace the lost bone, which prevents tooth loss. Grafted bone might be your own, donated or synthetic.

  Guided tissue regeneration also stimulates new bone growth. One method your dentist might use entails placing a piece of fabric between the bone and tooth, which blocks harmful materials from entering the area where new bone will grow. The second method involves the application of a gel that contains proteins---similar to those found in tooth enamel---to the diseased tooth root; this encourages the formation of healthy bone and tissue.

Self-care

• Typical oral hygiene practices can go a long way in managing and preventing the progression of gum disease. Get regular professional cleanings as suggested by your dentist. Brush with a soft-bristle brush and replace it every three to four months; electric toothbrushes might be more effective for removing plaque and tartar. Brush at least twice a day, but preferably after each meal or snack. Floss every day and use a mouthwash to get rid of plaque. Use dental picks or sticks to remove plaque between teeth.