A healthy smile isn’t just about straight, white teeth—it’s also about strong, healthy gums! If your gums are bleeding, sore, or starting to pull back, you may need periodontal treatment. Though this may sound scary, seeking professional dental care to manage and address symptoms will help preserve your smile now and in the long run. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a dentist near you for more information.
What is Periodontal Treatment?
Periodontal treatment focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease. The condition begins as gingivitis, characterized by plaque buildup, which leads to inflammation. As the disease progresses, bleeding, pocket formation, receding gums, and even tooth loss can all occur.
Depending on the severity of a patient’s case, periodontal treatment options in Millwoods range from deep cleaning to oral surgery. Once the condition moves past gingivitis, the disease can only be managed, not reversed. Therefore, it’s important to visit a dentist as early as possible to ensure your smile can fully recover without complications.
Types of Periodontal Treatment
Thanks to contemporary advancements in dental care, there are a number of methods that may be suitable for your unique requirements. Our dentist will discuss the options available and, based on a thorough oral evaluation and x-rays (if necessary), will advise the best path to pursue.
1. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
This treatment is the first step in addressing gum disease. Dentists recommend this to those who have gingivitis. Plaque and tartar will be thoroughly scraped from along the gum line. Then, the roots of the teeth are smoothed to encourage the gums to reattach.
2. Prescribed Medication
Antimicrobial mouth rinses or antibiotics help reduce bacteria. Some dentists apply the medication directly into gum pockets. Medications are often used alongside deep cleaning.
3. Surgical Procedures
This mode of care is advised to patients who have entered into advanced stages of the disease.
- Flap surgery: The gums are lifted back for deep cleaning then stitched in place.
- Gum grafting: If gums have receded too much, tissue from the patient themselves, a donor, or synthetic material are used to cover exposed roots.
4. Laser Therapy
Some dentists use lasers to remove diseased tissue and bacteria. This form of treatment is less invasive than traditional oral surgery and can help speed up the healing process.
How to Take Care of Your Gums and Smile
- Brush Properly Twice a Day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging gums. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and brush gently in small circles. Pay extra attention to the gum line, since this is where plaque, tartar, and other debris can easily gather.
- Floss Daily. This removes food and plaque from between teeth, especially in those places that are hard to reach with a toothbrush alone. Be gentle as you do this; snapping floss can irritate your gums. You may also wish to try using a floss pick or a water flosser if regular flossing is difficult.
Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash. This kills bacteria and freshens up your breath. Choose a mouthwash containing antibacterial ingredients to prevent infections. Be sure to swish for at least 30 seconds for maximum effectiveness. - Eat a Gum-Healthy Diet. Fruits and veggies that are crunchy (ie: apples and carrots) help clean teeth. Foods rich in Vitamin C (ie: oranges and strawberries) strengthen gums. Also, be sure to limit or avoid sugary snacks and acidic drinks since these items can harm both the teeth and gums.
- Stay Hydrated. Water washes away bacteria and food particles bacteria in the mouth. It also keeps your mouth from getting too dry—saliva naturally fights bacteria!
Quit Smoking or Using Tobacco. Smoking weakens your immune system, meaning that it’ll be more difficult for your gums to heal and tooth loss is also more likely. - Visit Your Dentist in Millwoods Regularly. Patients of all ages are always advised to get professional cleanings and checkups approximately every six months. Early detection prevents minor issues like cavities and infections, as well as more serious problems, including gum disease, from developing.
- Manage Stress. Stress weakens your immune system, making gum infections more likely. Stress can also manifest in the form of teeth grinding which can weaken your smile and cause the gums to recede. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, medication, or yoga can help.
Protect Your Smile; Visit Agape Dental
Though you may not realize it, gum care is as important as tooth care. By maintaining a good hygiene regimen, eating a well, and seeing your dentist routinely, you can keep your gums in top shape and prevent serious problems from arising.
If you’re already experiencing gum problems, don’t panic—seeking out periodontal treatment near you can help. The key is early action and good oral hygiene. Our knowledgeable dental staff at Agape Dental are ready to work with you to get your smile back to feeling well and functioning properly. We employ gentle methods and tailor treatments to each patient’s needs. Please call or email us today to schedule a consultation.
