Periodontal Disease Treatment Options

early detection of gum disease symptoms makes reversing gum disease easier

I'm sure you would agree, the saying "less is more" applies here! Most dental professionals agree....the most conservative and least expensive option is best.

Because of dental fear, some needlessly avoid periodontal disease treatment.

The best gum disease treatment restores your gums to a healthy condition that you can maintain. Treatment happens in a few appointments but maintenance happens everyday:)

Here are the traditional and latest periodontal disease treatment options.

Do it yourself, at least some of it...

Dental scaling and root planing aka dental deep cleaning

Dental scaling is sometimes called deep cleaning. The goal of dental scaling and root planing is to remove calculus or tarter that has built up near or under your gum line. The result is nice smooth roots that are easier to floss and less irritating to your gums. Dental scaling can be gently and painlessly done.

If you have gum disease that has progressed further than gingivitis, you may need dental scaling. It's an important treatment for reversing gum disease.

After scaling and root planing your dentist or hygienist will re evaluate and recommend further treatment where needed. If dental scaling and root planning is maintained it should not have to done more than once. You can prevent gum disease from recurring.

Not sure if you really need a dental deep cleaning? Click here.

Medications

• Periostat - a low dose of doxycycline that works as an enzyme supressor
• Arestin - An antibiotic powder that is placed between your tooth and gum
• Chlorhexidine rinse - an prescription rinse that kills bacteria
• Listerine mouthwash - an over the counter mouthwash that kills bacteria.

Periodontal surgery

• Pocket reduction and bone reshaping
• Bone grafting
• Gum grafting
• Dental implants


• Laser gum surgery

The downside to having gum surgery? Cost and Pain.

Although lasers have made gum surgery more tolerable, it's still surgery and still requires recovery time and may cause tooth sensitivity. surgery is a good choice when all other options fail.

Because gum surgery can be unpleasant, some periodontists prefer dental implants (an expensive but much more comfortable option) if gum disease has progressed too far.

Your Role

• be alert for gum disease symptoms
• Work with your hygienist to fine tune your brushing and flossing techniques
• Don't miss your dental check-ups
• Use floss alternative products like Waterpik, Hydrofloss, or Sonicare AriFloss when needed

No dentist, dental hygienist, or surgeon can cure your gum disease alone.

You have the most important role in periodontal disease treatment :)

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