Gum Disease Treatments: Understanding Your Options for Restoring Your Smile and Oral Health

If you notice bleeding while brushing or flossing your teeth, you could be looking at gingivitis or gum disease. It can be an indication that the gums are infected. If not treated, gum disease can worsen as the infection travels below the gumline into the bone. 

Severe gum disease is known as periodontitis. Gum disease can increase your risk of diabetes and other health conditions. Learn more about gum disease treatments and your options for restoring your smile and oral health.

Understanding Gum Disease

A buildup of plaque and tartar on the gums and teeth causes gingivitis. The bacteria on the gums cause them to become swollen, red, and tender. In this state, the gums may bleed when brushing or flossing.
 

If not treated, the condition worsens, causing periodontitis or severe gum disease. Early detection is the best way to protect your oral and overall health. There are various treatment options, depending on the stage of the disease.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Identifying the signs of gum disease will help with effective treatment. Symptoms vary with the stage, and they include:
 

• Red and swollen gums

• Bad breath

• Sensitive teeth

• Shrinking or recessed gums

• Shifting or wiggly teeth

Gum Disease Treatments 

There are various treatment options for gum disease. The dentist will consider the stage of the disease and your overall health when recommending treatment. You may consider surgical and nonsurgical treatments, including:
 

• Professional dental cleanings. They help treat the early symptoms of gum disease. 

• Scaling and root planing. These remove plaque and tartar.

• Medications. Certain medications can reduce the symptoms of gum disease.

• Flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery reduces the spaces between the gum and teeth

• Soft tissue grafts improve gum health by treating gum recession

• Bone grafts help replace bone tissue destroyed by gum disease

• Bone surgery can help smooth out bone craters that form due to significant bone loss

Early Treatment of Gum Disease

The sooner you get treatment for gum disease, the better your chances of restoring your smile. Gum disease is reversible in the early stages (gingivitis). Used alongside surgery and other therapies, antibiotics can reduce bacteria that cause gum disease. 
 

Certain antibacterial toothpaste reduces plaque and gingivitis. They contain fluoride and triclosan (antibiotic) and are available over the counter. An antimicrobial mouthwash can also help control bacteria. 

Restoring Your Smile and Oral Health

Caring for your teeth and gums can restore your smile and oral health. Regular oral exams can detect gum issues in the early stages. The dentist can recommend treatment or preventive measures. 
 

Whether you need nonsurgical or surgical treatment will depend on the stage of the disease, your oral health, and your overall health. The dentist will also consider your ability to follow posttreatment instructions.
 

Gum disease treatment is why many people visit the dentist. Studies suggest that almost half of all adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. Early detection and treatment will help you prevent periodontal disease. 
 

For more on gum disease treatments, visit Perio Atlanta at our office in Atlanta, Georgia. Call (404) 352-3123 to book an appointment today.