Gum Disease Treatment – Plainview, NY
Stop Gum Disease in Its Tracks
Gum disease is a true menace; this bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth is actually the leading cause of tooth loss in the entire world, and it can even make you more likely to have a heart attack or stroke! But through comprehensive gum disease treatment, our team can find, diagnose, and address this disease before it ever has a chance to harm your smile. If you’re experiencing red, swollen, or tender gums that bleed often, be sure to contact us today to get the treatment you need!
Why Choose Meadowbrook Dentistry for Periodontal Therapy?
- Chao Pinhole Technique Provided In-House
- Advanced Soft Tissue Laser Utilized
- Various Sedation Dentistry Options Available
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a common oral health condition that affects roughly half of all US adults over the age of 30, per the CDC. Also referred to as periodontal disease, it’s the result of a bacterial infection within the mouth that attacks gum and bone tissue alike. During its earliest stage, referred to as gingivitis, the gums become inflamed and swollen; however, it can often be reversed at this point through excellent oral hygiene. Once it progresses to periodontitis, an advanced form, it can only be managed, not cured. Chronically poor oral hygiene is perhaps the biggest factor associated with gum disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
During any routine checkup, our team can inspect your mouth for symptoms of gum disease. Remember, these warning signs aren’t always obvious at first and you might not notice them at home on your own. That said, here are a few things that we’ll be on the lookout for:
- Swollen or reddish gums
- Bleeding gums, mostly when brushing or flossing
- Teeth that look particularly long (which is often a side effect of gum recession)
- A change in how your teeth fit together
- Permanent teeth that have loosened
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
How we treat gum disease depends on how severe your current condition is. Once you’ve come in for your appointment and our team has had the chance to inspect your situation, we can begin walking you through your options and explaining which treatment route may be best for your smile. That said, we’re excited to offer a wide range of options that can address and help manage gum disease at virtually any stage.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are considered the gold standard of periodontal therapy because they allow our team to treat the infection right at its source. First, an ultrasonic cleaner will be used to break up and remove any plaque and tartar that has built up around your gums (scaling), and then we’ll gently smooth out the rough surfaces of your teeth’s roots (root planing). This will make plaque less likely to accumulate on them in the future, lowering your chances of redeveloping gum disease.
Do You Need Scaling & Root Planing?
To determine if scaling and root planing is right for you, your dentist will complete an examination of your mouth. X-rays will also be captured to collect as much information as possible. Depending on the condition of your gums, the depth of your gum pockets, and the progression of your gum disease, they may recommend scaling and root planing.
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
A complete scaling and root planing treatment can be completed over the course of a couple of visits, but treatment length is different from patient to patient. To remove plaque and tartar, your dentist will begin by scaling the teeth with dental tools. They will target the gumline and beneath the gumline where bacteria build up.
After the scaling portion is complete, your dental team will move on to the “root planing.” This is when they smooth down sections of the teeth beneath the gumline to help them adhere to the teeth. This helps to speed up the healing process, making it more difficult for the bacteria to build up again. Ultimately, this process reduces your risk of developing gum disease again.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
It is normal for your gums to feel sore following scaling and root planing. Your gums may also be a little bit inflamed. This is temporary following your treatment and should resolve itself in a few weeks. Here are a few tips to help the healing process go quickly and smoothly:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater after meals.
- Floss thoroughly every day.
- Stick to a soft diet following your treatment.
- Avoid foods and beverages that are spicy, acidic, or hot.
- Refrain from intense physical activity following your treatment.
Antibiotic Therapy
After your initial periodontal therapy cleanings, our team may decide to apply a topical antibiotic to your gums in order to further fight the infection. After being placed on your gums, the antibiotic will harden into a wax-like substance and slowly dissolve over the next few days. This will allow the medicine to reach and eliminate even the most deeply hidden bacteria. We may also prescribe an oral antibiotic if necessary.
Laser Periodontal Treatment
Harmful bacteria located along the gum line can literally be vaporized in an instant with our soft tissue laser. Its highly-focused beam of light can be used to precisely attack gum disease, and it can even remove infected tissue while reducing both bleeding and swelling. It’s so accurate that it can leave the surrounding healthy tissue completely untouched, ensuring a quick and easy recovery afterward.
Chao Pinhole Technique
Gum recession, where the tissue pulls away from the teeth and exposes the sensitive roots, is actually one of the most common symptoms of gum disease. In the past, the only way to address this issue was with an invasive gum graft, but at Meadowbrook Dentistry, we don’t live in the past. Using the Chao Pinhole Technique, all it will take to restore your gum line is a tiny hole that is literally the size of a pin. Using special tools, your doctor will be able to gently stretch and massage your gum line back to its original position, saving you from the incisions and sutures typically needed to accomplish this.
Gum Disease FAQs
Why Is Treating Gum Disease So Important?
Did you know that untreated gum disease is the number one cause of adult tooth loss. IN addition to that gum disease can be dangerous for much more than just your smile. Studies have shown that those who have gum disease are significantly more likely to have heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. By seeing a skilled dentist to treat your gum disease, you can manage this condition and even reverse it in early stages.
Will the Infection Reoccur?
If you aren’t committed to caring for your oral hygiene, the infection of your gum tissue can recur. We might recommend more frequently cleanings for a time to ensure that it doesn’t return. These sessions would keep harmful bacteria from causing further harm to your gum tissue. By brushing twice and flossing thoroughly every day, seeing your dentist twice a year, and refraining from smoking, you can help to reduce your chances of a reoccurring infection.
Is Damaged Caused by Gum Disease Permanent?
The first stage of gum disease is called “gingivitis.” During this time, the infection can usually be treated without issue, and you can avoid experiencing long-term complications. However, many people don’t notice early signs of the infection, so it progresses and begins to destroy the oral structures. Once the infection reaches periodontitis, the damage can be permanent. While it cannot be reversed, there are some treatment options available to repair issues that it has caused and keep the infection under control.
Is Gum Disease a Dental Emergency?
Gum disease should always be treated seriously. However, it isn’t in the same category as sudden dental injuries or ailments, like a severe toothache or knocked-out tooth. That being said, you should still give us a call at your earliest convenience if you are noticing signs of periodontal disease. This way, we can schedule you an appointment and thoroughly examine your teeth and gums. Then, we will determine which type of treatment will best meet your needs. By addressing this issue as soon as possible, you can prevent serious health effects later on.
How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease affects nearly half of American adults over the age of 30! However, many people don’t know the common signs. You should be on the lookout for swollen, red, puffy, or tender gums. Another common symptom is bleeding when brushing or flossing. If you notice these issues, let us know so we can help to restore the health of your smile.