Gum Treatments
Explained

Some common gum treatments include:

1. Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent gum disease.
2. Gum surgery: In severe cases of gum disease, gum surgery may be required to remove infected tissue, reduce pocket depths, and promote the growth of healthy gum tissue.
3. Antibiotic therapy: Antibiotics may be prescribed to help eliminate infection and promote healing in the gums.
4. Medications: Medications such as antimicrobial mouth rinses, gels, and ointments may be prescribed to help control inflammation and promote healing.
5. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your diet, quitting smoking, and practicing good oral hygiene can help improve the health of gums and prevent gum disease.

The symptoms of gum disease can vary from mild to severe, and may include:

1. Bleeding gums: Gums may bleed when brushing or flossing, which can be a sign of gum disease.
2. Swollen or red gums: Inflammation and infection in the gums can cause them to become red, swollen, and tender.
3. Receding gums: Gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth and creating deep pockets.
4. Loose teeth: Gum disease can weaken the supporting structures of the teeth and cause them to become loose.
5. Chronic bad breath: Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can be a sign of gum disease.
6. Changes in bite: Changes in the way the teeth fit together when biting can be a sign of gum disease.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist or periodontist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early treatment of gum disease can help prevent more serious health problems, such as tooth loss and damage to the jawbone.

Gum surgery is a type of periodontal treatment that is performed to treat gum disease or improve the health of gums. There are several different types of gum surgery, including:

1. Flap surgery: This procedure involves making small incisions in the gum tissue to lift it away from the teeth and remove plaque and tartar from the roots. The gum tissue is then repositioned and sutured back into place.
2. Bone grafting: In some cases, gum disease can cause the jawbone to deteriorate, leading to the loss of tooth support. Bone grafting involves adding new bone tissue to the jaw to help support the teeth and promote the growth of healthy gum tissue.
3. Soft tissue grafts: This procedure involves taking healthy tissue from another part of the mouth and grafting it onto the gums to improve the appearance and health of the gums.
4. Guided tissue regeneration: This procedure involves placing a special barrier over the jawbone to protect it and promote the growth of healthy gum tissue.
5. Laser gum surgery: This minimally invasive procedure uses a laser to remove infected gum tissue and promote the growth of healthy gum tissue.

Gum surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, and the recovery process can vary depending on the type of surgery performed. After gum surgery, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for postoperative care, including regular dental check-ups and cleanings, to help promote healing and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.