Types of Periodontal Treatment for Gum Disease

Wondering about the importance of periodontal treatment? Read on to learn more about this important part of oral health. Periodontitis, more commonly known as gum disease, requires specialized periodontal treatment. Gum disease is a serious gum infection that targets the gums and can eventually destroy the jawline if left untreated. Luckily, periodontal specialists generally have many ways to prevent and cure gum disease. These periodontists have additional specialized training to treat gum disease in both non-surgical and surgical procedures.

The different types of periodontal treatment

The following is an overview of the different types of periodontal treatment available today.

Non-surgical treatment

If at all possible, periodontal health and curing gum disease should always be achieved by using the least invasive and most cost-effective method. One of the most popular non-surgical methods is scaling and root planing. Scaling and root planing is when the roots of your gums are carefully cleaned to remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets of your mouth. This can smooth out your tooth roots to help bacteria and toxins find their way out of the body. Essentially, this is an extremely deep cleaning that removes the surface bacteria from further damaging your gums.

There is also a non-surgical procedure called the tray-delivery system. This system is a custom-fit tray that is molded from the patient's mouth. This tray helps deliver medications as prescribed by the periodontist. This technique is still relatively new, and the FDA has not officially cleared the system as a clear-cut way to prevent and treat gum disease.

Regenerative and gum graft surgery

If the bones supporting your teeth are unsalvageable through non-surgical means, you may have to resort to a regenerative procedure. These procedures reverse some of the damage done by gum disease by regenerating lost bone and tissue. For most regenerative periodontal treatment procedures, the gum tissue is removed to eliminate the existing bacteria. This also reduces the pocket depth eaten up by the periodontal disease. Regenerative procedures generally see a high success rate if combined with a strict oral routine and additional dental maintenance.

Gum graft surgeries are generally done when your gums have receded due to gum disease. Gum graft procedures can also help stop bone loss and protect the roots from further decay due to any sort of infection or disease. Gum grafts cover the roots that are or were being attacked by gum disease. This essentially stops the issue in its tracks. As an additional bonus, gum grafts are generally known for improving the patient’s smile as well as improving their oral health.

Dental implants

Dental implants can be a great option for those who have lost bone tissue or actual teeth from gum disease. It is also important to note that for a proper dental implant to take place, the patient will have to have adequate jaw and bone tissue and structure to support the implant. Dental implants are a great option for those who have lost multiple teeth and wish to have a smile makeover. Dental implants essentially replace the roots of a tooth and can then be fitted with a dental crown.

Fewer bacteria means more chances for you to regain your confidence and smile. Dental implants are also commonly done alongside gum grafting and other periodontal treatments for gum disease. Without a doubt, gum disease is a prevalent issue, even to this day. However, with these treatment options available, you will have no problem fighting back against the issue.

Signs that indicate a need for periodontal treatment

The earlier that periodontal disease is detected and treated the less invasive the treatment in most cases. Therefore, it is important to understand the symptoms of periodontal disease and seek treatment if there are symptoms present.

In the early stages, common symptoms of periodontal disease include gum swelling, tender gums, bleeding gums (especially while brushing), and minor gum discoloration. These symptoms indicate a case of gingivitis, a less severe form of gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can worsen into a more severe case known as periodontitis. The symptoms of periodontitis include the aforementioned symptoms of gingivitis in addition to deep gum pockets and/or gum recession.

The bottom line

Contact us today to schedule a consultation visit. During your first visit, we can assess the condition of your periodontal health, discuss any symptoms or concerns you have experienced, and help you find the right solution to achieving optimal periodontal health in the long term.

Request an appointment here: https://corderoperiodontics.com or call Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA at (561) 763-9221 for an appointment in our Palm Beach Gardens office.

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