4 Treatments For Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an advanced form of gum disease that occurs when you have gingivitis that is not treated properly. With periodontal disease, you likely experience a number of different problems, including the loosening and shifting of your teeth, calculus forming over your teeth, and shortening of your gum tissue. Your periodontist will decide on the best treatment option based on what you are experiencing from the gum disease.

Scaling and Root Planing

One of the most common treatments your periodontist will suggest for periodontal disease is a combination of scaling and root planing. Both of these procedures are done during the same visit, as they work together to treat the gum disease. This is a non-surgical treatment that cleans your teeth and beneath the gumline. Root planing will remove infected tooth structure and smooth the root surfaces of your teeth, while scaling removes tartar and plaque from your teeth, including beneath the gumline. Your gum pockets should close shortly after healing from this procedure.

Gum Graft

A gum graft is done when you have bone loss from periodontal disease and the roots of your teeth are starting to become exposed. This is not only unappealing when smiling, but it can cause an increased risk of pain and infection. In order to cover the roots, you will need to grow more gum tissue, which is possible with gum graft surgery. Gum tissue from your palate or from a donor is used to create gums that cover the roots. It may be done on one or several teeth, depending how advanced your gum disease has gotten.

Laser Treatment

A more advanced treatment that is available for periodontal disease is laser treatment. This uses the techniques of other treatments, like scaling and root planing or gum grafts, but uses lasers to perform the procedure. There are many benefits to lasers, particularly if you have gum disease. Many people with gum disease have pain or discomfort, heightened sensitivity, and dental anxiety. The lasers cause minimal discomfort and the procedure is done much more quickly.

Regenerative Treatment

Periodontal disease, when not treated properly, can lead to the loss of gum tissue and bone. If you have lost jawbone and a tooth falls out, you won't be able to get an implant because there is not enough bone to support the metal post. If your gum tissue starts receding, you are exposing your tooth roots and have lengthened teeth. In both cases, there are regenerative procedures that can help. These procedures use donor bone or tissue to actually generate more bone or gum tissue where you need it. Regenerative treatments often use gum grafts when performing the treatment.

For more information about periodontal disease and the various treatment options, contact a clinic such as Accent Dental.