If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, you’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half of adults in the United States have gum disease. Thankfully, there are effective gum disease treatments available that can help you get your oral health back on track. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common gum disease treatments for adults and what you can expect during the process.
1. Scaling and Root Planing: This is a non-surgical gum disease treatment that involves deep cleaning your gums. Your dentist or periodontist will use a special tool to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and below your gumline. They will also smooth out any rough spots on your tooth roots, which can help prevent bacteria from building up in the future. Scaling and root planing may take several visits to complete, depending on the severity of your gum disease.
2. Antibiotics: If your gum disease has progressed to a more advanced stage, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate the infection. Antibiotics can be taken orally or applied directly to your gums. Your dentist may also recommend an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth.
3. Gum Grafting: If your gum disease has caused your gums to recede, your dentist may recommend gum grafting. This procedure involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth (usually the roof of your mouth) and attaching it to the affected areas of your gums. Gum grafting can help protect your tooth roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve the appearance of your smile.
4. Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a minimally invasive gum disease treatment that uses a laser to remove bacteria and infected tissue from your gums. This procedure is less painful and has a shorter recovery time than traditional gum surgery. Laser therapy can also stimulate the growth of healthy gum tissue.
5. Oral Surgery: In severe cases of gum disease, oral surgery may be necessary to treat the infection. This may include removing damaged tissue, reshaping your gums, or removing teeth that cannot be saved. Your dentist will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
Gum disease can be a serious oral health problem, but with the right treatment, you can prevent it from causing long-term damage to your teeth and gums. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or receding gums, contact your dentist right away. They can help you determine the best course of treatment to get your oral health back on track. Remember, taking care of your gums is an important part of maintaining a healthy smile!
Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:
970-221-5115
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526
