Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum and tooth-supporting tissues. It can result in discomfort, tooth loss, and other health problems if left untreated. Often, non-surgical treatments can treat this dental condition.
 

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up on teeth. Plaque is a sticky film composed of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. Poor oral hygiene allows plaque to accumulate along the gumline and between teeth.
 

The bacteria in plaque irritates the gums and triggers inflammation. As plaque builds up, it leads to gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Without treatment, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. This more severe infection affects the gums, ligaments, and bones.
 

Professional Dental Cleaning

To treat this condition, start by scheduling a dental cleaning with a professional. Your dentist will clean plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. This removes harmful irritants from the gums and creates a clean surface.
 

The clean surface helps the gums reattach to the teeth. The dentist may apply antimicrobial medication to your gums to help control infections. You will also receive instructions on improving your oral hygiene routine.
 

Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy

If professional dental cleaning is insufficient, non-surgical periodontal therapy is the next option. Dental professionals call this treatment scaling and root planing. A dental hygienist scales off plaque and tartar from the tooth root surfaces.
 

Scaling and root planing clean areas that are inaccessible with regular cleanings. This treatment removes the infection and allows your gums to heal. Dentists usually perform it over several dental visits based on severity.
 

Medications

Dentists often prescribe medications in conjunction with scaling and root planing. They may recommend antibiotics to control bacterial infections. They also use oral or topical antimicrobials to fight bacteria and inflammation. Your dentist might prescribe a medicated mouth rinse to use daily. Using medications and antimicrobials helps create a clean, healing environment for your gums.
 

Laser Gum Therapy

Dentists can use lasers as an alternative to scaling and root planing. The laser breaks up plaque and kills bacteria along the gumline and on tooth roots. The laser beam sterilizes pocket areas and seals blood vessels to prevent recontamination. Patients usually do not need anesthesia for laser procedures. There is less bleeding and discomfort compared to scraping. Recovery time is also faster.
 

Improved Oral Hygiene

The key to managing this dental problem is excellent oral hygiene. Your dentist will show you proper brushing and flossing techniques. This removes plaque from tooth surfaces and around the gums. To remove plaque better, try using a toothbrush with soft bristles or a smaller head. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can also reduce bacteria.
 

Dental Maintenance

Ongoing periodontal maintenance is also necessary. To take care of your teeth, go to the dentist often for cleaning, gum checks, and oral cancer screening. Periodontal maintenance removes new plaque before it causes more infection. Your dentist will also check for signs of continuing disease or re-infection.
 

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Non-surgical treatments might not completely remove the infection in advanced cases. Signs indicating that surgery is necessary include:
 

• Deep periodontal pockets between teeth and gums.

• Loosening or separating teeth.

• Significant bone loss is visible on X-rays.

• Persistent gum inflammation and bleeding.

• Tooth loss is related to gum disease.
   

Conclusion

Let your dentist know if you also have a family history of periodontal disease. Follow your dentist’s prevention and treatment recommendations to enjoy a healthy smile. Consistent oral hygiene, professional cleanings, and non-surgical therapy can keep your gums healthy.
 

For more on dental care, visit Riverview Dental at our office in Corunna, Michigan. Call 989-743-4851 to schedule an appointment today.