Oftentimes, periodontists combine pocket reduction surgery with other regenerative procedures, such as bone grafting, gum grafting or guided tissue regeneration. Proper oral hygiene includes brushing two to three times a day, flossing daily and visiting your dentist for regular exams and cleanings. But if you’ve already lost bone around your teeth due to infection, the disease is too advanced to reverse. However, you can manage it with proper treatment and consistent, diligent oral hygiene. A dental bone graft uses your own bone, donated bone or synthetic bone to rebuild areas that have been damaged by gum disease.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth. It can range from mild inflammation to more severe cases that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. So, what is the best treatment for gum disease?
Sugary foods attract bacteria that can lead to gingivitis. Tea tree oil may aid in the treatment of gingivitis, according to a 2022 review of existing literature. The researchers concluded that tea tree oil is superior to CHX in reducing inflamed gums, while CHX was more effective at inhibiting plaque formation. Results suggested that all three types of mouthwash were effective in reducing plaque and inhibiting gingivitis.
Your dentist may want you to see a periodontist if your symptoms aren’t improving. This is a dentist with advanced training who specializes in treating gum diseases. The CDC note that good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings can control and treat earlier forms of periodontal disease, such as gingivitis. Unlike the other stages of gum disease, gingivitis is curable as long as you treat it early enough. If you notice symptoms of gingivitis, you should schedule an appointment with a dentist and immediately begin practicing better oral hygiene at home.
If symptoms persist, see a dentist for further evaluation and treatment. Did you know that stress can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation throughout the body, including in the gums? You might think aloe vera gel is reserved only for your skin and scalp, but its anti-inflammatory benefits also extend to your mouth, making it the best gum pain relief gel. Derived from the leaves of the aloe vera plant, aloe vera has both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, so it can help soothe inflamed gums and promote healing. Thanks to salt’s natural antibacterial properties, it can help reduce inflammation and kill off harmful bacteria lurking inside your mouth, Dr. Sands says.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Antiseptic mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine or hexetidine are available over the counter from pharmacies. However, there’s some debate about whether using mouthwash is necessary for people with healthy gums. Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing your teeth properly or regularly, can cause plaque to build up on your teeth. Gum disease isn’t always painful and you may be unaware you have it.
One of the most effective treatments for gum disease is regular professional dental cleanings. These cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that can contribute to gum disease. Dentists or dental hygienists use specialized tools to clean above and below the gumline, helping to prevent further progression of the disease.
Scaling and Root Planing
This allows them to temporarily move your gums back from your teeth roots. Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of gum disease in which the infection spreads beyond the gum line and irreversibly destroys the bone tissue that supports the teeth. In some cases, periodontitis can also result in tooth loss.
In more advanced cases of gum disease, a procedure called scaling and root planing may be recommended. This deep cleaning treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from the root surfaces of the teeth and smoothing out rough spots to prevent bacteria from accumulating.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be prescribed in conjunction with other treatments to help eliminate infection-causing bacteria in the gums. Topical antibiotics, mouth rinses, or oral antibiotics may be used depending on the severity of the gum disease.
Surgical Treatments
In severe cases of gum disease where non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgical procedures may be necessary. These can include flap surgery to reduce pocket depths, bone or tissue grafts to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue, or guided tissue regeneration to promote new tissue growth.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Regardless of the treatment option chosen, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home to prevent gum disease from recurring. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help keep your gums healthy and prevent future issues.
In conclusion, the best treatment for gum disease will depend on the severity of the condition and individual factors. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with proper at-home care, are key components of preventing and treating gum disease. Consulting with a dental professional is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.
