Keeping Your Smile Bright and Healthy
At Gallagher Family Dentistry of Metairie, we offer periodontal services to address all stages of gum disease and restore your oral health. Gum disease is a serious condition that can impact anyone.
Our team is dedicated to promptly treating any gum infections we come across to prevent further complications. Rest assured, if we detect any issues with your gums, we will address them immediately.
- Frequently, we employ a treatment known as scaling and root planing, which involves a two-step deep cleaning procedure. Initially, we eliminate tartar buildup on the tooth roots situated below your gumline. Subsequently, we meticulously smooth the surface of the tooth roots, facilitating easier reattachment of the gums to the tooth.
- In addition, we may prescribe antibiotics to eradicate any residual bacteria, further aiding in the treatment process.
Proactive Gum Disease Treatment With Dental Sedation
The initial indication of periodontitis is an inflamed gum line, often leading to discomfort or bleeding during oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, or professional cleanings. Without proper treatment, the gums may recede and separate from the teeth, resulting in the formation of periodontal pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria.
Your dentist will assess the depth of these pockets to evaluate the extent of the condition and determine the appropriate course of treatment. If left untreated, periodontal disease can progress to affect the jawbone and the supportive tissues of the teeth, leading to bone deterioration and eventual tooth loss.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is treated in two main ways, depending on the severity of the condition:
- Chronic periodontitis: This is the most common form of gum disease, typically resulting from poor oral hygiene habits. Bacteria accumulate below the gum line, forming tartar, a hardened substance that cannot be easily removed by brushing and flossing alone. Without intervention, the gums become inflamed and damaged, leading to bone loss.
- Aggressive periodontitis: This type of gum disease is believed to have a genetic component and may run in families. It progresses rapidly and can even affect children.
- Necrotizing periodontal disease: This is the rarest form of gum disease and can occur in individuals with immune deficiencies or chronic illnesses. It involves compromised soft tissue and bone due to reduced blood flow.
How Is Periodontal Disease Or Gum Disease Treated?
Scaling and root planing: This is the standard treatment for periodontitis and is highly effective in managing the condition, particularly in its early to moderate stages. This procedure aims to remove harmful accumulations of plaque, tartar, and oral bacteria from below the gum line and between the teeth. The root surfaces are then smoothed out to prevent future accumulations. As a result, the gums can begin the healing process and eventually reattach themselves to the teeth.
Bone grafting: This treatment is necessary when bacteria and plaque have caused deterioration and decay in the jawbone. In such cases, your dentist will need to surgically access the damaged jawbone. The dentist may apply proteins and artificial bone-like material to the affected areas to encourage new bone growth and regenerate the bone. Bone grafting is often essential for strengthening the jawbone, enabling it to support dental implants for replacing missing teeth.
What Is Gum Recession?
Receding gums are a common issue, affecting around half of Americans over the age of 50. However, it's important to note that young people can also experience gum recession. Genetic factors can play a role, as some individuals are born with naturally thin gums, predisposing them to recession. Additionally, environmental factors can contribute to gum recession. Aggressive brushing, trauma, oral surgery, or poorly fitting partial dentures and dental appliances are examples of factors that can cause gum recession.
Why Are Brushing And Flossing Important?
Brushing and flossing are fundamental for preserving a healthy mouth. Apart from freshening breath, they disrupt the bacterial biofilm responsible for cavities and gum disease. With numerous products available, consulting your hygienist is crucial to finding the most suitable option. It's recommended to brush twice daily for two minutes each time and floss once daily. Encouraging children to adopt these dental habits early on is essential for ensuring a lifetime of oral health and a beautiful smile.
Treatment Of Gum Recession
If you observe a tooth appearing elongated or feel sensitivity or discomfort while brushing and flossing, it might indicate gum recession. It's essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist for an examination. If gum recession is present, a common treatment involves grafting a small amount of tissue from the palate and applying it over the receded area. This procedure aims to shield the tooth from additional damage. It is a minor intervention that can be performed for one or more teeth, depending on the requirement.
