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It can be difficult to get your spirits up after learning you have periodontitis—gum disease. You may find comfort in knowing that this condition is extremely common and very treatable. Advances in dental technology and technique have made the process both easy and affordable.
Continue reading to learn more about three of the best treatment options available from your periodontist. One of these options may be your best bet to return to a healthy smile!
1. Scaling and Root Planing
The biggest cause of periodontal disease is bacteria-laden plaque and tartar that forms under your gumline. With time, as these deposits increase, small pockets can form between your teeth and gums. Without timely treatment, this can lead to loss of gum tissue and even bone.
Scaling and root planing go hand-in-hand in a process also known as “deep cleaning.” First, scaling uses specialized instruments to clear away plaque and tartar from below your gumline, stopping the release of further irritants.
Root planing is the second step of the process where the rough surfaces on the exposed roots are made smooth. This helps to inhibit the new formation of plaque.
2. Antibiotic Treatment
Like root scaling and planing, antibiotic treatment is non-surgical. Antibiotics have demonstrated their effectiveness in both reducing the depth of pockets created by plaque buildup and in offering protection against infections.
Since gum disease originates from the buildup of bacterial plaque, eliminating as much of these bacteria as possible is a crucial part of the treatment. Typically, the oral antibiotic regimen becomes the third step in scaling and root planing treatment and lasts for 6-9 months.
3. Perio Protect
If you want a gentle, time-released method of treatment, then a periodontist may offer Perio Protect. This recent and advanced alternative is like a mouthguard but utilizes a special system of pressure that gently forces medicated gel into the pockets where bacteria reside.
Each tray is unique and is created using an impression of your mouth that’s sent off to a dental lab for fabrication. After the trays return, you’ll be asked to use them every day for a few minutes at a time.
The bacteria that cause gum disease are nearly impossible to manage by yourself without treatment. Allowing the infection to continue to make its way through your tissues and wear away your bone can cause permanent damage. If you’re suffering from periodontal disease, make an appointment with your dentist. Your smile will thank you.
About the Author
Dr. Bita Amanda Farhoumand is a board-certified periodontist boasting Diplomate status in the American Board of Periodontology, which is awarded to those who have greatly exceeded the specialty’s education and achievement requirements. Dr. Bita earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the UCLA School of Dentistry before becoming an implant researcher, a Jay Siebert Tri-school Symposium presenter, and even a guest expert on Top Doctors Medical Interviews. Her expertise is highly regarded in the dental community. To schedule a cleaning at Bita Farhoumand, DDS, call (703) 981-3185 or visit her website to discover more services.
