Gum Disease Treatment

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Gum disease is diagnosed in millions of Americans each year. When caught early, the condition can be easily managed, whereas untreated gum disease can cause serious oral health and overall health problems. The bacteria and infection associated with gum disease can travel through the blood stream, increasing your risk of other conditions such as strokes, diabetes, or heart disease. While good oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease, it is important for you to be aware of the symptoms and seek treatment immediately for the best outcome.

Symptoms of gum disease include:

• Red, swollen, or sore gums
• Loose teeth
• Change in the bite
• Bleeding gums
• Pockets between the gum line and teeth
• Chronic bad breath

Unfortunately, in the early stages, gum disease symptoms are not always clear. It is important to know that bleeding while brushing or flossing is never normal and should be evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible.

Treatment for gum disease depends on how advanced the condition has become. In every situation, we strive for the least invasive, yet most effective treatment options. In many cases, you may be prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection that accompanies gum disease.

For gingivitis, treatment typically involves a thorough professional cleaning along with an improvement in oral hygiene at home. You may need to visit the dentist more frequently to monitor the health of the gums.

For periodontitis, treatment may include a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. This procedure works by removing plaque build-up around and below the gum line.

If the gum disease progresses to the advanced stage, treatment may become more aggressive and invasive. Soft tissue grafts along with pocket reduction procedures may be necessary. Since advanced gum disease can often lead to tooth loss, you may also have to undergo restorative services such as dental implants to restore the smile. Restoring missing teeth is important to oral health and it should be completed as soon as the mouth is healthy.

If you are diagnosed with gum disease, you are in good hands with Dr. Alkhoury and his team. To learn more about your treatment options, call us today.