How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

September 1, 2009 by admin
Filed under: Dental Health, Health Related, Periodontal disease 

The main goal of treatment is to control the infection.  The number and types of treatment will vary, depending on the extent of the gum disease.  Any type of treatment requires that the patient keep up good daily care at home.  Additionally, modifying certain behaviors such as quitting tobacco use, might also be suggested as a way to improve treatment outcome.

The dentist, periodontist, or dental hygienist removes the plaque through a deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing.  Scaling means scraping off the tartar from above and below the gum line.  Root planing gets rid of rough spots on the tooth root where germs gather, and helps remove bacteria that contribute to the disease.

Medications may be used with treatment that includes scaling and root planing, but they cannot always take the place of surgery.  Depending on the severity of gum disease, the dentist or periodontist may still suggest surgical treatment.  These are some medications that are currently used:

  • Prescription antimicrobial mouthrinse
  • Antiseptic ‘chip’
  • Antibiotic gel
  • Enzyme suppressant

Surgical treatments are also sometimes used to treat periodontal disease in areas that are not responding to non-surgical treatments.  Surgical options include:

  • Flap surgery
  • Bone and tissue grafts

When considering any extensive dental or medical treatment options, you should think about getting a second opinion.  Make sure you have had a complete explanation of the treatment plan and that you are comfortable with the dentist and office you are going with.

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Comments

2 Comments on How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

  1. Sarasota florida dentist on Tue, 9th Mar 2010 1:37 am

    2. Periodontal disease,is the inflammation of gums. The disease is not only painful at times, but it can lead to dangerous infection and damage to the bone and tissues that support your teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include swollen, bleeding gums, bad breath and loose permanent teeth.
    Nice post about how to treat Periodontal disease. Thanks for sharing it.

  2. DDS Milpitas on Fri, 16th Jul 2010 2:38 am

    3. Periodontal disease can also cause other health issues throughout the body, such as the heart. Studies have revealed that the germs that cause gum inflammation are the same ones that cause inflammation in arteries, which can lead to blockage.

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