Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums that can cause pain, bad breath, and damage to the teeth. It is caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth, which can lead to inflammation around the gums and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.
Despite its prevalence in adults, periodontal disease can be treated with proper care and dental hygiene practices. In this article, we will discuss some of the best treatments for periodontal disease so you can get back your healthy smile!
Periodontal disease is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth, which can lead to inflammation of the gums, pain, and bad breath. If left untreated, periodontal disease may even result in tooth loss. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help manage periodontal disease and keep your healthy smile intact!
Professional Treatment
One of the best ways to treat periodontal disease is to visit a dentist or periodontist for professional care. A dental professional will examine your mouth and determine the severity of your condition before recommending treatment options based on their diagnosis. Common treatments include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) or laser therapy to reduce inflammation around the gum line. In serious cases, surgery may be needed to remove plaque and tartar build-up or repair damaged gums.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. It can help reduce inflammation and improve gum health by removing bacteria that cause infection. The procedure is usually done in two visits, with the first visit being a consultation with your dentist to determine if you need it performed.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is an alternative treatment option for periodontal disease that uses laser energy to reduce inflammation around the gums. It works by killing bacteria responsible for causing periodontal disease and can be used in combination with scaling and root planing. Laser therapy is generally safe and virtually painless, making it a popular choice for treating periodontal disease.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat periodontal disease. This could include gum grafts, pocket reduction, or bone regeneration procedures depending on the severity of your condition. If you are considering surgery for periodontal disease, make sure to consult with your dentist or periodontist to determine if it’s the best option for you.
Home Care
In addition to professional treatment, there are also home care solutions that can help manage periodontal disease. It’s important to maintain good dental hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth. You should also avoid smoking, eat a healthy diet, and use a soft toothbrush to prevent further damage to your gums.
Brush Twice A Day
Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste can help remove bacteria that cause periodontal disease and keep your teeth clean overall. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes each time in small circular motions along the gum line, making sure to reach all areas of the mouth. With regular brushing, you can help manage periodontal disease and maintain a healthy smile.
Floss Regularly
Flossing is just as important as brushing when it comes to managing periodontal disease. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth that can cause bacteria build-up. Make sure to floss at least once a day using an up-and-down motion along the side of each tooth, taking care not to pull too hard on your gums.
Use An Antiseptic Mouthwash
Using an antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce inflammation and fight off infection caused by periodontal disease. Look for mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine or a mixture of essential oils to help kill bacteria and keep your mouth healthy. Make sure to use the mouthwash at least twice a day after brushing and flossing for the best results.
Conclusion
Periodontal disease can lead to gum recession, tooth decay, and even loss if left untreated. While professional treatment may be needed in serious cases, maintaining good dental hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help manage the periodontal disease from home. Additionally, visiting your dentist or periodontist regularly for check-ups is important in order to catch any warning signs or symptoms early on before the condition progresses.
A: The best treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of your condition, but may include scaling and root planing, laser therapy or surgery. It’s important to consult with your dentist or periodontist in order to determine the best option for you.
A: You can help prevent periodontal disease by maintaining good dental hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Additionally, it’s important to visit your dentist or periodontist regularly for check-ups so they can catch any warning signs early on before the condition progresses.
A: The length of treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of your case. In mild cases, treatment can be completed within a few weeks. However, more severe cases may require multiple visits over an extended period of time in order to achieve the best results.
