Types of Gum Disease Treatments

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and tissues that support your teeth. It is caused by bacteria accumulating on the teeth due to poor oral hygiene or other factors. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. 

The early stages of gum disease are called gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. As the disease progresses, the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth and forms pockets where more bacteria can gather. Eventually, the bone that supports the teeth begins to deteriorate, leading to loose teeth and even tooth loss. 

There are several treatments for gum disease, including scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and surgery. However, the best way to treat gum disease is to prevent it in the first place. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist at The Dental Design Studios, can help you avoid this painful condition. 

Types of Gum Disease Treatments 

Periodontal Maintenance 

If you have mild or moderate gum disease, our dentist in Houston, TX, may recommend periodontal maintenance. This treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and below the gumline. Our dentist will also clean the pockets around your teeth to prevent the spread of the infection. 

Root Planing and Scaling 

Root planing and scaling is a treatment for advanced gum disease. During this procedure, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from the roots of your teeth and smooth the root surfaces to remove rough spots where bacteria can hide. This procedure helps remove bacteria and toxins from the tooth root and helps stimulate the growth of new bone and tissue. 

Pocket Reduction Surgery 

Pocket reduction surgery is a surgical procedure used to reduce pocket depth between teeth and gums. When periodontal disease has progressed to an advanced stage, the bone and tissues that support the teeth can become damaged. Pocket reduction surgery can help restore these supporting structures and prevent further damage to the teeth and jaw. 

Bone Grafting 

If you have lost bone due to advanced gum disease, you may need bone grafting to restore the bone structure around your teeth. This procedure involves taking bone tissue from another part of your body or using a synthetic material to rebuild the jawbone. 

The Benefits of Periodontal Treatments 

• Treating gum disease can help improve oral health by restoring your teeth and gums to good health. 
• By treating gum disease early, you can reduce your risk of developing more severe health problems, such as heart disease or stroke. 
• When you have healthy gums and teeth, you’ll feel better about yourself and your smile. 

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, visit The Dental Design Studios at 8391 Westview Drive, Houston, TX 77055, or call (713) 468-5800. We offer non-surgical and surgical treatments for gum disease at our office.