Gum disease (which is also known as periodontal disease) is a widespread problem in which the tissues that hold your teeth in place can become infected. If left untreated, it can cause serious symptoms like tooth loss.
This article discusses the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, including advanced options such as invasive procedures, like laser gum treatment, also known as laser periodontal treatment.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease starts with plaque, a film of sticky bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If that plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing every day, it can harden and become tartar or calculus. Tartar does not come off with a toothbrush and can only be removed professionally. Plaque and tartar bacteria create toxins that irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed.
Gum disease’s early phase is gingivitis. The gum may now appear red, swollen, and prone to bleeding (often during brushing and flossing). Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene, regular professional cleaning, and a healthy lifestyle.
Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. In periodontitis, pockets are formed when the gums pull away from the teeth and inflammation spreads beneath the gum line. The bone and tissue supporting the teeth will eventually be destroyed as these pockets deepen and they become more infected. As the disease worsens, teeth may fall out or need to be extracted, necessitating tooth replacement.
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Early diagnosis of the disease is critical to the success of the gum disease treatment. Gum disease is generally diagnosed by a dentist during a complete oral exam, which includes
- Review of Medical History: Some medical conditions and medications impact the health of the gums.
- Visual Examination: The dentist will visually inspect the gums for inflammation, redness, swelling, or bleeding.
- Probing: The depth of the gum pockets around each tooth is measured with a small measuring instrument called a periodontal probe. Gum pockets that are 1-3 millimeters in depth are generally considered healthy. And deep pockets signal gum disease.
- X-rays: Taking dental X-rays can show bone loss around the teeth, one of the primary signs of periodontitis.
Gum Disease Treatment Options
The appropriate gum disease treatment depends on the severity of the condition. The primary goals of treatment are to control the infection, prevent further damage, and restore gum health.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
For mild to moderate gum disease, non-surgical approaches are often effective.
- Professional Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This procedure involves meticulously removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and root surfaces below the gum line. The root surfaces are then smoothed to remove bacterial toxins and prevent future plaque accumulation. This is a fundamental step in addressing gum disease treatment.
- Antibiotics: Oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial infection, especially in cases of aggressive periodontitis.
- Surgical Treatments:
When the effects of nonsurgical treatment options are limited, surgical procedures can help control advanced gum disease. Advanced gum treatment procedures should be conducted by licensed specialists or general dentists with advanced training.
- Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): With flap surgery, the gums are lifted back and the tartar is removed so that the root surfaces of the teeth can be cleaned. Finally, the gums are sutured back into place in such a manner that the gum tissue fits securely around the teeth, thus minimizing pocket depth.
- Bone Grafts: This procedure involves regenerating lost bone if the bone loss has occurred in the jaws, strengthening the teeth. (Effectiveness may vary. Treatments should be discussed with a licensed dentist.)
- Soft Tissue Grafts: This method involves reinforcing thin gums or filling in where gums have pulled away from exposed roots of the teeth.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration: This is a procedure in which a special membrane is used to encourage the bone and gum tissue that have been damaged by gum disease to regrow. (Effectiveness may vary. Treatments should be discussed with a licensed dentist.)
III. Laser Gum Treatment or Laser Periodontal Treatment
In recent years, laser-assisted periodontal therapy has become a breakthrough option for gum disease treatment. This FDA-approved method uses lasers to remove hardened tartar, target bacteria in periodontal pockets, and may assist in reducing inflammation and supporting the healing environment for soft tissue.
Lasers can remove hard tartar, kill germs in periodontal pockets, and even assist in the development of healthy tissue. Because laser periodontal treatment is minimally invasive and often associated with reduced discomfort and shorter recovery times compared to traditional surgery, it is preferred by many patients who are concerned about the invasiveness of conventional procedures.
Note: While laser treatment offers benefits, it is not a universal solution for all cases of gum disease. A licensed dental professional should evaluate your condition and determine whether this option is suitable.
Prevention is Key
Treatment for gum disease is available, but it is best to prevent the condition from the start. Good oral hygiene (regular brushing twice a day and daily flossing) with periodic professional cleanings and dental checkups is important. Also, not smoking and controlling systemic diseases such as diabetes can dramatically lower your chances of getting gum disease.
Conclusion
Understanding gum disease is the first step toward safeguarding your oral health. From early diagnosis through comprehensive gum disease treatment options, including innovative approaches like laser gum treatment, maintaining healthy gums is achievable. Remember, consistent oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are your best defense.
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen; proactive care can prevent serious issues and preserve your smile for years to come.
Contact a licensed dental provider in California to discuss your periodontal treatment options.
Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical, dental, legal, or insurance advice. Please consult with a licensed provider or a dental insurance specialist for guidance tailored to your specific needs.