Treating Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, often termed gum disease, is a chronic infection of the gums and jawbones that support the teeth. This disease is progressive and can cause bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth and eventual tooth loss. If you are suffering from periodontal disease, you may wonder what treatment options are available. Although there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for gum disease, there are common treatments that you may undergo.

Deep Cleaning

Often, the initial treatment for gum disease is a deep cleaning performed by a dentist or dental hygienist. In this procedure, your teeth are typically cleaned one side at a time and your gums are numbed for treatment. A special instrument that sprays water is often used to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria causing infection under the gums.

Laser Treatment

For advanced cases of periodontal disease or cases that do not respond to deep cleanings, laser treatment may be recommended. South Florida laser dentistry seeks to remove bacteria causing inflammation and infection of the gums. Dentists must be specially trained in laser dentistry and can help patients experience a less invasive form of treatment.

Maintenance Appointments

Periodontal disease cannot be cured, only halted in its progression. For those who have undergone periodontal therapy, the most important step is to seek continual maintenance appointments. This often means that the patient needs to have their teeth cleaned and examined more often than most people, up to four times a year. In this way, disease progression can be closely monitored.

Being diagnosed with periodontal disease can be a scary thing, but the diagnosis does not always have to mean that you will lose all your teeth. With proper treatment and regular maintenance, many patients are able to keep their teeth for many more years. Consult with your dentist today to find out what treatment options are best for you.