If left untreated, periodontal disease can have significant implications for oral health. Fortunately, periodontal treatment is an effective way to control infection and reduce the severity of periodontitis.
During a periodontal cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed from around the teeth and gums using scaling instruments. This helps reduce the bacterial population in and around the teeth, which helps prevent further damage to the gums. It also encourages a smoother, healthier surface for better plaque control.
In addition to regular cleanings, there are other ways to improve your periodontal health which include:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Eating a balanced diet and avoiding foods and drinks that are high in sugar
- Limiting the use of tobacco products
- Having regular dental exams and cleanings
Your periodontist may also recommend additional treatments, such as antibiotics or surgery, to control your condition. These therapies minimize bacteria in the mouth, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
It’s important to remember that periodontal treatment is not a one-time solution. Good oral hygiene and regular checkups are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Following your dentist or periodontist’s advice can help you prevent further damage and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.
Don’t put off going to the dentist if you have any worries about your dental health or if you think you could have periodontal disease. Cornerstone Dentistry is here to help. We can assist you in receiving the treatment and direction you require so that you maintain your teeth and gums for many years to come.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is a relatively straightforward procedure that can help your tongue recover health and beauty. If you suffer from gum recession, we encourage you to contact our office for an evaluation so that we can determine the best course of action for your unique case.
During a gum grafting surgery, they take fresh gum tissue and move it over to cover the exposed tooth roots. It’s pretty cool because this procedure can actually make your tooth enamel stronger, reduce that annoying sensitivity in your teeth, and boost your confidence in showing off that smile of yours.
To fix gum problems like receding or damaged gums, the surgeon will take some healthy gum tissue from another part of your mouth, like the palate or roof of your mouth. They’ll use it to repair and restore your gums.
Home Care
Home care is an essential aspect of maintaining good oral health. It involves daily practices that help maintain healthy teeth and gums between dental visits. Proper home care includes:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth
- Using mouthwash to rinse your mouth and freshen your breath
A balanced diet, limiting sugary snacks and beverages, and avoiding tobacco products contribute to oral health. Consistent home care habits prevent dental problems and promote a healthy, confident smile.
Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can have many symptoms, stages and severity of the condition. Here are some common signs and symptoms of gum disease:
- Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums are usually pink and firm. In the early stages of gum disease, the gums may appear red, swollen, and tender to the touch.
- Bleeding Gums: are a typical gum disease symptom especially during brushing, flossing, or eating. If your gums constantly bleed, it may indicate an underlying gum infection.
- Bad Breath: Halitosis can suggest gum disease. Gum disease bacteria can stink leading to chronic bad breath.
- Receding Gums: As gum disease progresses, the gums may start to reduce or pull away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. These can create a longer appearance of the teeth and result in sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth: Advanced gum disease can damage tooth support structures and weaken, leading to tooth mobility or shifting. If you notice your teeth feeling loose or a change in alignment, it may be a sign of gum disease.
- Pus or Discharge: In severe cases of gum disease, you may notice the presence of pus or discharge around the gum line. This suggests infection and require immediate dental attention.
- Gum Sensitivity or Pain: Gum disease can cause discomfort or pain in the gums. You may experience sensitivity to touch, pressure, or chewing.
Remember that early gum disease symptoms may not be evident. Regular dental exams are essential for gum disease detection and treatment. If you observe any of these indicators or suspect gum disease, see a dentist or periodontist for a correct diagnosis and treatment.
Gum Cleaning
Gum cleaning, also known as professional dental cleaning or scaling and root planing, is a procedure performed by a dental professional to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the gum line and tooth surfaces. It is crucial to maintaining optimal oral health and preventing gum disease.
Dental hygienists and dentists use special equipment to carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line during a gum cleaning. Scaling occurs. Scaling removes gum-inflammatory bacteria and toxins. Root planing smooths tooth roots after scaling. This phase removes germs and helps gum tissues reattach to the teeth.
Gum cleaning is usually a painless procedure, but if you have sensitive gums or extensive tartar buildup, you may experience mild discomfort. In such cases, local anesthesia or numbing agents can be used to ensure your comfort during the process.
Regular gum cleaning is recommended for routine dental care, typically every six months. However, individuals with gum disease may require more frequent cleanings to manage the condition effectively.
It’s worth noting that gum cleaning is different from regular brushing and flossing at home. While daily oral hygiene practices are crucial for maintaining oral health, professional gum cleaning provides deeper and more thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums, targeting hard-to-reach areas and addressing any underlying gum disease or inflammation.
What To Expect During A Periodontal Treatment
During a periodontal treatment, the dental professional will first assess the condition of your gums. This may involve taking X-rays or using a special probe to measure pocket depths around the teeth. Based on this evaluation, a customized treatment plan may be recommended.
The actual periodontal treatment typically involves scaling and root planing but may also include additional procedures such as laser therapy or pocket reduction surgery.
Although periodontal treatments are generally safe and effective, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the dental professional. This usually includes brushing and flossing regularly, using an antiseptic mouthwash, avoiding certain foods and beverages that can aggravate gum inflammation, and scheduling regular follow-up visits to the dentist.
By taking these steps, you can help prevent the recurrence of gum disease and enjoy optimal oral health for years to come. With a little effort, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy so they stay with you for life. Talk to your dental professional today about how periodontal treatments can help you maintain oral health.
Contact Us Today To Learn More About Our Periodontal Treatments!
At Cornerstone Dentistry, we proudly offer a wide range of periodontal treatments and services to help you achieve optimal oral health. Our experienced professionals are committed to providing the highest quality care available. We understand how important it is to have healthy gums, so our goal is to provide effective treatment options to restore your smile.
We look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams!
Proudly serving patients from Anderson, Seneca , Clemson, Powdersville, Greenville, Easley, Greenwood, and beyond!
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with your Anderson dental team, give us a call at (864) 222-9001or request an appointment online! We look forward to hearing from you!
