Periodontal treatments are essential in maintaining healthy gums and a beautiful smile. With various options available to address gum-related issues, it’s crucial to know and understand the different treatments and when they might be necessary.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through six essential periodontal treatments to help you make informed decisions about your dental health.
Are you ready to dive in? Let’s go.
Top 6 Periodontal Treatments
To better understand periodontal treatments and know which one suits you best, we’ll cover the following six treatments, ranging from preventive measures to more advanced procedures:
Scaling and Root Planing
One of the most common periodontal treatments is scaling and root planing, a non-surgical procedure to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and their roots. This treatment is recommended for patients with mild to moderate gum disease and those who visit a specialist, like a family dentist in Bethlehem, PA, for routine check-ups and toothache relief at a dental facility.
Gum Graft Surgery
Gum recession, which can expose the roots of your teeth, is a common gum disease symptom requiring more advanced treatment. Gum graft surgery might be necessary in cases like these to cover and protect the exposed roots. This surgical procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue from another area in your mouth (such as the palate) and attaching it to the affected area, promoting healing and gum growth.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
When gum disease progresses, it can create pockets (spaces) between your teeth and gums that can harbor harmful bacteria. Pocket reduction surgery helps close these gaps, allowing you to clean and maintain your teeth properly. During this procedure, your dentist will lift the affected gums, remove the bacteria inside, and then reattach the gums to the teeth, reducing the pocket’s depth.
To explore surgeries and other emergency dental procedures available, click here.
Regenerative Procedures
In some cases, periodontal disease can lead to bone and gum tissue loss, which can compromise your overall dental health. Regenerative procedures, such as bone grafting and guided tissue regeneration, help address these issues by promoting bone and gum tissue growth and repair in the affected areas, providing support and stability for your teeth.
Dental Implants
Losing a tooth can have significant consequences on your oral health and self-esteem. Luckily, dental implants offer a long-term solution to replace missing teeth. Implants consist of a titanium post inserted into the jawbone, an abutment connecting the post to a custom-made crown, and the crown itself, which closely resembles a natural tooth. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime and are the next best thing to having natural teeth.
Periodontal Maintenance
After receiving any of the mentioned periodontal treatments, ongoing care, and maintenance are crucial to maintain healthy gums and avoid further complications. Your dentist will recommend regular check-ups, routine cleanings, and other dental treatments like toothache relief at Always About Smiles to prevent gum disease from resurfacing. Good oral hygiene practices at home, such as daily brushing and flossing, are essential to maintaining a beautiful smile.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your gums is just as important as caring for your teeth. Understanding the different periodontal treatments available allows you to make informed decisions about your dental health and seek the necessary care. Try to be proactive with your dental care by visiting a dental professional regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
However, if you notice any signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, inflammation, or bad breath, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist, as early intervention can save you from more invasive treatments and further complications. Remember, a healthy mouth is a big part of a happy life, so prioritize it.
