How a General Dentist Treats Gum Disease

Gum Disease Commerce, CA

Like cavities, gum disease is a common dental dysfunction that affects people of all ages. If you are suffering from gum disease, you should not put off getting treatment. Your general dentist has the knowledge and training to relieve the symptoms of this disease. In some cases, the dentist might be able to reverse its effects. You can have peace of mind to know that there are methods available to restore your health and prevent more serious problems.

An overview of gum disease

Also known as periodontitis, this disease can damage the soft tissue in the mouth. It is characterized by red, inflamed gums and bleeding from this area while brushing or eating. Without proper treatment, periodontitis can cause bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss. Failing to brush and floss regularly will lead to this disease. This causes a buildup of bacteria between teeth and along the gumline. Plaque and tartar can form, destroying the gums and teeth.

Education

As the first signs of gum disease appear, the general dentist may teach proper brushing and flossing techniques to the patient. The individual may not be flossing and brushing enough, or at all. Or, the dentist may need to correct the way the patient is doing these things. Often, doing these habits correctly can stop the disease from progressing.

Scaling

This is one of the most common ways to combat gum disease. The dentist or hygienist can perform this treatment, either during a routine checkup or at a different appointment. Using a tool, the dentist or hygienist scrapes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth or below the gums. Some offices may use an ultrasonic device or a laser. This treatment can remove bacteria from the teeth and gums, promoting good health. It will reduce the risk of the disease becoming more serious.

Root planing

This process often accompanies scaling. The dentist smooths the surfaces of the roots. This minimizes the chances of bacteria growing and causing gum disease. It is also an effective way to stop tooth decay. This treatment can speed up the healing process for people who have severe periodontitis.

Medication

In some situations, the dentist may recommend using antibiotics to treat gum disease. Topical or oral medications can kill the bacteria that cause plaque and tartar buildup. This method is also a good way to keep infections from developing in the gums or teeth. The dentist may give multiple doses to the patient, depending on how serious the periodontitis is.

Surgery

The most severe cases of gum disease may require flap surgery. In this treatment, the dentist makes incisions in the gums, pulls them back, and exposes the roots. This allows the dentist to do more effective scaling. It can also let the dentist examine the bones and repair any bone loss.

Healing is possible

There can be serious consequences to having gum disease. The good news is that there is hope that you can recover from these issues. Your dentist can offer these treatments to restore your oral health. Make an appointment so you can discuss your options.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sunshinedentalcommerce.com or call Sunshine Dental Group at (323) 743-4273 for an appointment in our Commerce office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Commerce, CA.

Recent Posts

Does Gum Disease Put The Entire Body At Risk?

Gum disease is a progressive condition that is caused by bacteria in the mouth getting into gum tissues. Your immune system responds to this invasion by sending off antibodies to fight off the invaders. The ensuing battle leads to inflammation and damage to the structures that support teeth.The first stage of gum disease is called…

3 Gum Disease Prevention Tips

Understanding what gum disease is, as well as how it can be prevented, is something every dental patient needs to do so they are not diagnosed with this all-too-common dental disease. Every time a patient goes to a dental appointment, they should feel free to ask the dentist any questions they have, as education is…

Gum Disease: 5 Things You Need To Know

Despite the prevalence of gum disease, not every patient is aware of the risks and implications of this condition. By acquiring enough information about this ailment, you will be able to take the appropriate measures to curb and prevent its occurrence.In this article, you will learn about the important facts everyone needs to know about…

What Procedures Can Be Performed By Laser Dentistry?

Laser dentistry has been a popular method of dental care for the last several decades. Lasers are perceived as less painful and more effective than traditional dental treatment methods and can be used for a variety of procedures with a high degree of precision.With the use of lasers for dental procedures, patients experience less pain,…

Recent Posts

What Procedures Can Be Performed By Laser Dentistry?

What Procedures Can Be Performed By Laser Dentistry?

Laser dentistry has been a popular method of dental care for the last several decades. Lasers are perceived as less painful and more effective than traditional dental treatment methods and can be used for a variety of procedures with a high degree of precision.With the use of lasers for dental procedures, patients experience less pain,…

How Dental Bonding Is Used As Part Of A Smile Makeover

How Dental Bonding Is Used As Part Of A Smile Makeover

One of the more conservative procedures offered as part of a smile makeover is composite dental bonding. Read on to learn more about this restorative procedure. The procedure involves using composite resin to restore a tooth's structural integrity while also improving its look. Dental bonding may be used to fix problems including stained teeth, gapped…