What Should You Know About Periodontal Treatment
Everyone is susceptible to the common gum condition known as periodontitis. The only way out of infection is through treatment. This disease affects the bone supporting both the teeth and the gum tissues. You will gradually lose the alveolar bone if untreated, ultimately leading to teeth loss in the days to come.
In this blog, we’ll discuss periodontal treatment in detail. It will prepare you for what to anticipate when undergoing periodontal treatment at a dental office. Additionally, you will be aware of your gum condition and the treatment options available.
What Is Periodontal Treatment?
This is a method of treating periodontal problems. It eliminates bacteria from the teeth’s surrounding areas and stops the tissues and bone from suffering additional damage.
Treatment for periodontal disease is essential. It prevents teeth loss, which can be caused by periodontal disease. Moreover, this treatment reduces the risk of heart attacks and other problems that are brought about by periodontitis. If you think you are suffering from periodontitis, consult your dentist immediately. Your dentist will make a diagnosis to assess the severity of the injury.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is the first step in periodontal treatment. It helps in estimating the degree of harm the disease has caused. The appropriate course of treatment can be chosen after considering the extent of the damage. Some of the ways to make a diagnosis are.
- Going through your medical history – A patient’s medical history plays a vital role in any diagnosis. In this case, it helps the periodontist figure out the causes of the symptoms. The dentist can identify factors like drinking or smoking by reviewing your medical history.
- Examining your mouth physically – A periodontist may also perform a physical examination as a part of the diagnosis. The periodontist will check for plaque and tartar buildup on your gum and teeth.
- Taking dental X-rays – The periodontist will be able to identify bone loss with the help of dental X-rays. The outcomes of dental X-rays will help determine the best treatment option.
- Measuring the depth of the tooth groove pocket – A dental probe is used to gauge this depth. The periodontist presses the probe up to the teeth to take the measurements. You need to know that deep pockets indicate periodontitis. In the case of healthy teeth, a pocket depth should be close to two millimeters.
What Does Periodontal Treatment Involve?
Periodontal treatment can be divided into two particular categories – surgical and nonsurgical. Several factors could affect how well this treatment works. Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine makes the procedure simpler and more effective.
Nonsurgical Periodontal Treatments
These treatment options are used when the gum problem is not very severe. Some types of nonsurgical periodontal treatment are:
- Root Planning – In order to prevent more tartar buildup, the dentist will smoothen your teeth’ surface during this procedure. Also, root planning effectively removes that bacteria from your teeth.
- Scaling – The dentist will remove bacteria and tartar from your teeth with a laser in this treatment. Scaling can help get rid of any tartar buildup that has developed below your gums.
- Antibiotics – Bacteria in the mouth can be dealt with by using antibiotic mouthwash. These antibiotics minimize damage by controlling bacterial infections. Antibiotic insertion gels are another option for treating bacterial infections.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments are used for individuals suffering from severe periodontal problems. Some of the surgical periodontal treatment options are:
- Soft Tissues Graft – Severe periodontitis can be the reason for the loss of gum tissues. Soft graft tissue is the best treatment option if you suffer from such a problem. Soft tissue graft can reduce gum recession and hide any exposed roots. Tissues from different parts of your mouth are utilized for reinforcement. A donor might also provide healthy tissue.
- Flap Surgery – To perform scaling, your dentist lifts back some gum tissue. He/she accomplishes this by making a gum incision. Root planning can also be done successfully after flap surgery. Maintaining healthier gum tissue should be easier post-treatment.
- Bone Grafting – Your dentist conducts a bone graft when the bone surrounding your teeth is seriously injured. Donated bone or a portion of your own bone can be used for the graft. Bone grafting mainly aims to stop tooth loss. Some of the other surgical treatments include tissue regeneration and the use of tissue stimulants.
We hope going through this blog has helped you find out about periodontal treatment. In case you are suffering from gum disease and are looking for top-quality periodontal treatment in Littleton, CO, book an appointment with Columbine Creek Dentistry today!