Treating periodontal disease

Once you have established the cause of gum disease and recognised the symptoms, your next step is to discuss what gum disease treatment is required. There are a number of types of treatment for gum disease; what you receive will be dependent on the extent of the problem. The main objective when treating a patient is to not only look for a cure for gum disease, but to control the infection before it spreads.

Your dentist will ask you to detail your symptoms and talk through your medical history. This will help to generate a better understanding of the problem and its magnitude. After a thorough examination, your dentist may suggest x-rays to help determine the condition of the teeth and bone structure. In some instances, if the infection is caught early, then they may be able to provide treatment for gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed by removing the plaque buildup and maintaining good oral health. Gingivitis treatment is essential to ensuring your bacterial infection does not develop into periodontitis.

How is Periodontal Disease Treated?

Gum disease treatment will usually be carried out by a specialist who is qualified in the treatment and care of conditions such as periodontal disease. Your dentist may refer you to a specialist periodontist who can provide you with a detailed assessment and gum disease cure.

Having been diagnosed with periodontal disease by your practitioner, the next step is to discuss the process of how to cure gum disease effectively. If caught in the early stages, the treatment will involve a procedure called scaling and root planing. This requires a method of removing the plaque and calculus pockets developed, followed by a deep clean and smoothing of the root surface. This simple course will help aid the teeth back to health.

However, more advanced cases require detailed treatment. This can involve surgical treatment and/or medication depending on what is deemed the best course in how to treat gum disease for each individual.

The treatment administered depends on to what extent you are suffering with gum disease. Your dentist or specialist practitioner will discuss the necessary course of action for you before beginning with any treatment.

Different Types of Treatments

  • Deep Cleaning
    If you have the early signs of gum disease, such as gingivitis, then your dentist or specialist periodontist will begin by cleaning your teeth thoroughly. This process is known as scaling and root planing and begins with a deep clean using an electric toothbrush, gritty toothpaste and specialist instruments called scalers. This helps to remove tartar from the gum line and remove the bacteria from the tooth root where the disease is prone to develop. Extensive scaling may be required if gingivitis has developed into periodontitis. You may need a local anaesthetic injected into your gums to block the feeling, although you will remain conscious during the treatment.
  • Surgery
    If your gum disease is very severe, you may be referred over to see a specialist periodontist for gum surgery. Although this is very rare, it is essential when the gum tissue requires extensive repair work.
  • Antibiotics and Other Medications
    Medications may be prescribed in conjunction with a deep cleaning treatment. Antibiotics, alone, are not considered an effective way of treating periodontitis but are still used in severe cases of gum disease. In some instances, medications may be administered to reduce the need for surgery over a longer period of time. Over the counter paracetamol and aspirin may be recommended if patients are suffering with a great deal of pain.
  • Medicated Mouthwash
    Your dentist may recommend using an antiseptic mouthwash to incorporate into your daily routine. By using a mouthwash after brushing, it helps to control the buildup of plaque that forms around the teeth. Gargling your mouth with a medicated rinse ensures any residue is cleared away after brushing.

Prevent Plaque Buildup

Having detailed the many types of gum disease treatment available, it’s important to note the ways in which you can prevent periodontitis and other forms of infections. Adhering to the following measures will ensure good oral hygiene.

  • Visit your dentist – it’s recommend that you attend regular appointments, at least once every 1-2 years (or more, if required).
  • Brush your teeth twice a day (morning and night) using toothpaste that contains fluoride.
  • Perfect a good brushing technique – brushing should last at least 2 minutes.
  • Using an electric toothbrush can provide you with good dexterity to reach all those important areas.
  • Flossing.
  • Rinsing and gargling with a good mouthwash (medicated if necessary).
  • Avoid smoking.

To find out more about treating periodontal disease please call us on 020 7247 7400 to speak our friendly team or fill out our contact form.