What Actually Happens During Gum Periodontal Treatment?

If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, you may wonder what to expect during gum periodontal treatment. Gum (periodontal) disease, involves the inflammation of the gums and other tissues that support and anchor the teeth. While untreated, it may lead to tooth loss, there’s encouraging news: Periodontal treatments are effective in rejuvenating your gum health. Keep reading to learn more about what happens during gum periodontal treatment.

Why is Gum Periodontal Treatment Necessary?

Gum disease develops from the accumulation of plaque, a bacteria-laden sticky substance, on the teeth. This bacterial presence in plaque leads to the infection of gums and bone, resulting in inflammation and the loss of bone. As the disease progresses, pockets form between the gums and teeth, making it easier for more bacteria to collect. Without treatment, the gums and bone supporting the teeth can be severely damaged, eventually leading to tooth loss.

Gum periodontal treatment near you is necessary to remove bacteria and tartar from below and around the gumline. It helps restore gum health and stop the further progression of the disease. Treating gum disease can also have benefits beyond oral health, as research shows links between periodontal disease and other conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

What are the Common Signs of Gum Disease?

Some signs that indicate you may need Local periodontal specialists in San Jose include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Gums receding from the teeth
• Constant bad breath
• Presence of pus between teeth and gums
• Teeth that are loose or moving
• Alterations in dental alignment during biting.

If you notice any gum problems, see your dentist immediately for an exam and diagnosis. Treating gum disease early leads to more favorable results.

How Does the Gum Periodontal Treatment Process Work?

The first step is cleaning thoroughly below the gumline, called scaling and root planing. Your San Jose dentist will administer local anesthesia to the area and then employ specialized dental instruments to clear away plaque and tartar from under the gumline and around the root areas. This removes bacteria and smoothes rough spots on the tooth root surfaces.

Some additional steps that may be taken:

• Medications like antibiotics or antimicrobials to fight infection
• Laser treatments to remove diseased gum tissue
• Regenerative procedures to regrow lost bone and tissue

For moderate or advanced gum disease, surgery may be recommended. The procedure includes elevating the gums for improved access to the roots and infected zones. Infected tissue is then excised, and the gums are sutured back into their original position.

Regular follow-up visits are key after gum disease treatment. Your dentist will monitor your healing and condition to ensure the disease does not recur.

Are There Different Types of Gum Periodontal Treatments?

Yes, there are a few different treatments available depending on the severity of gum disease:

• Scaling and root planing: This is the standard treatment to scrape away plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. It is typically done over two visits.
• Laser therapy: A dental laser can remove diseased gum tissue and kill bacteria. This can help regrow healthy tissue.
• Gum graft surgery: This surgery is done when the gums have receded significantly. The process involves transferring soft tissue from the palate to regions that have lost their gums.
• Bone graft surgery: With advanced bone loss, a bone graft can help regrow lost bone. Bone is taken from another area, such as the chin, and transplanted into areas needing bone regeneration.
• Flap surgery: This allows for deep cleaning and bone grafting if needed in areas with severe bone loss due to periodontal disease. The gums are lifted back and cleaned underneath before being stitched back into place.

The treatment recommended will depend on factors like the stage of your gum disease and how well you respond to initial therapy. Discuss your options with your periodontist.

What Can I Expect During and After Gum Periodontal Treatment?

During scaling and root planning, you can expect some scraping and vibration. Your gums will be numbed, so you shouldn’t feel pain, but pressure and sensitivity are normal. The process takes about 1-2 hours for each quadrant of your mouth, depending on the severity of the infection.

Your gums may be sore and swollen for a few days after treatment. Medications can help manage discomfort. Avoid hard foods on treated areas during the healing process.

Brushing and flossing properly after treatment is critical to keep your gums healthy. You must return for follow-up cleanings and exams to monitor your gum health. Your dentist near you may also recommend using an antiseptic mouthwash.

Most people can regain healthy gums and maintain their natural teeth with proper gum periodontal treatment and good oral hygiene at home. Regularly schedule professional dental cleanings and follow your 95129 dentist’s advice to prevent gum disease from returning.

In Summary

If you’re showing signs of gum disease, prompt periodontal treatment can help get your gums back on track before significant damage is done. A thorough cleaning below the gumline is typically the first step to remove plaque and bacteria. Other gum disease treatments like grafting procedures, antibiotics, or laser therapy may be needed for more severe cases.

Pay close attention to your gums so any issues can be caught and treated as early as possible. Maintain your daily dental care routine at home, ensuring you brush twice and floss once each day for optimal oral health. With professional treatment and good home care, gum disease can be stopped before it causes tooth loss.

For insights into treatment choices for gum disease, contact Neeshat S. Khan, DDS, today. We are dedicated periodontal specialists conveniently located in West San Jose and committed to treating gum disease and restoring the health of your smile. Call today to schedule your consultation.