Effective Solutions for Treating Gum Problems

Gum disease treatment varies significantly depending on the severity of the condition. While mild issues may require nothing more than a professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene, advanced cases can involve more complex and sometimes painful procedures. If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, seeking prompt treatment is critical to prevent further damage.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Your dentist will begin by conducting a thorough gum examination, which includes:

• Measuring gum pockets around each tooth
• Checking for inflammation or swelling
• Assessing gum recession

If the gum pockets are extensive, this could indicate bone loss, and your dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist in treating gum disease.

Gingivitis: Early-Stage Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. Treatments typically include:

• A professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup
• Improving oral hygiene habits (brushing, flossing, and mouth rinses)
• Regular dental checkups to monitor progress

With early intervention, gingivitis is reversible, and your gums can heal over time.

Advanced Gum Disease: Scaling and Root Planing

When gum disease progresses beyond gingivitis, deeper treatments may be required, such as:

• Scaling and Root Planing: A thorough, deep cleaning below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
• Medications: Antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses may be prescribed to control infection and inflammation.

Surgical Treatments

If non-surgical methods fail to resolve gum disease, surgery may be necessary to remove diseased tissue and create an environment conducive to healing. Common procedures include:

• Gum Surgery: Removes infected gum tissue and protects healthy gums and bone.
• Gum Graft: For receding gums, tissue is surgically taken from another area of the mouth and grafted onto the affected area to restore appearance and function.
• Abscess Treatment: A gum abscess may require deep cleaning to clear diseased tissue and drain any pus. Antibiotics are often prescribed to fight infection and prevent recurrence.

Prevention is Key

While treatments exist for all stages of gum disease, prevention is always the best approach. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash daily. Combine this with regular dental checkups to catch gum issues early before they progress.

If you’re concerned about gum disease, consult your dentist in McDonough for a comprehensive evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.

Take the first step towards a confident smile. Contact our McDonough dental office to schedule your consultation!