Gum health directly affects your overall oral wellness and can influence your general health. When gum tissue becomes inflamed or infected, bacteria can spread throughout your mouth and potentially enter your bloodstream. Understanding the available treatment options helps you make informed decisions about your oral care. Here is more information on three gum health treatments that a dentist might recommend for patients experiencing gum problems:
Deep Cleaning
A dentist can perform a professional deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, to address gum disease at its source. During this procedure, dental hygienists remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line using specialized instruments. The scaling portion eliminates bacterial deposits from tooth surfaces and root areas that regular brushing cannot reach.
Root planing smooths rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria tend to accumulate. This process helps gum tissue reattach to teeth and reduces pocket depths between gums and teeth. The procedure typically requires local anesthesia and may span multiple appointments depending on the extent of buildup.
Patients often experience some sensitivity and mild discomfort following treatment. Most people notice an improvement in gum health within two to four weeks, as inflammation decreases and tissues begin to heal. Regular maintenance cleanings, performed every three to four months, help prevent future bacterial accumulation. Deep cleaning is most effective for early to moderate gum disease, while advanced cases may require additional interventions.
Antibiotic Therapy
Antibiotic therapy targets bacterial infections that cause gum inflammation and tissue damage. Dental professionals prescribe antibiotics in several forms, including oral medications, topical gels, and antibiotic-filled fibers placed directly into gum pockets. The dentist will be able to assess the patient’s condition and create a tailored treatment plan.
Oral antibiotics like doxycycline or amoxicillin work systemically to reduce harmful bacteria throughout the mouth. These medications typically accompany other treatments rather than serving as standalone solutions. Treatment duration usually ranges from seven to fourteen days, depending on infection severity.
Topical antibiotic treatments deliver medication directly to affected areas. Dentists may apply antibiotic gels or place tiny antibiotic fibers into periodontal pockets during office visits. These localized treatments minimize systemic effects while maximizing bacterial reduction in problem areas.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical intervention becomes necessary when non-surgical treatments fail to control advanced gum disease. Several surgical options exist, each addressing specific aspects of periodontal problems. Flap surgery involves lifting gum tissue to expose tooth roots and underlying bone. Surgeons remove tartar deposits and reshape damaged bone before repositioning gum tissue.
Gum grafting addresses areas where gum tissue has receded, exposing tooth roots. Surgeons take tissue from other areas of the mouth or use donor material to cover exposed roots. Bone grafting becomes necessary when gum disease destroys the bone supporting teeth. Surgeons place bone material around affected teeth to promote regeneration. The grafted material serves as a foundation for new bone growth over several months.
Recovery from gum surgery varies depending on the procedure complexity. Most patients experience swelling and discomfort for several days following treatment. Following post-operative instructions closely promotes healing and reduces complications.
Find a Dentist
These three treatment approaches address different stages and severities of gum disease. Professional deep cleaning works well for early intervention, while antibiotic therapy tackles bacterial infections directly. Surgical options provide solutions when other treatments prove insufficient. The most effective treatment depends on your specific situation, including disease severity, overall health, and response to previous treatments. Regular dental checkups help identify gum problems early, when less invasive treatments remain viable. Maintaining good oral hygiene at home supports any professional treatment and helps prevent future gum disease development.
