Gum Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is the inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that begins forming on teeth within one hour of brushing. When plaque hardens, it becomes calculus (tartar). Over time, calculus buildup at or below the gum line causes inflammation, deep gum pockets, and loss of bone around the teeth.

If detected early, periodontal disease can be treated before significant damage occurs to the teeth and supporting bone. However, if left untreated, it may progress and lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss.

Signs of Periodontal Disease

• Red, swollen, tender, painful, or bleeding gums
• Gums that have receded from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Gritty feeling between teeth (tartar build-up)
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Abscesses between the teeth and gums
• Dentures no longer fitting properly
• Loose teeth, teeth drifting apart, or gaps forming between teeth

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation and swelling of the gums caused by bacterial plaque and calculus accumulation around the teeth. Bacteria release toxins that irritate the gum tissue, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing. Gingivitis is a reversible condition and can usually be resolved within a few weeks with effective oral hygiene and professional cleaning if needed.

What Causes Plaque?

Plaque is a biofilm composed of bacteria that adheres firmly to the teeth and cannot be rinsed away. Poor oral hygiene allows plaque to accumulate and harden into calculus. Bacteria within plaque and calculus damage the gums and can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease if not properly removed through brushing, flossing, and professional care.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease involving irreversible loss of the underlying bone that supports the teeth. Gum pockets form between the tooth and gum, acting as reservoirs for bacteria. The rate of bone loss varies between individuals. Periodontitis is often painless, and by the time symptoms are noticed, significant damage may already have occurred.

Advanced Stages of Gum Disease

When gum disease progresses untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, causing severe damage to the gums, teeth, and bone. Gums recede, teeth become loose, and in advanced cases, teeth may fall out or require extraction.

Prevention and Treatment

Periodontal treatment can slow, stop, or control the progression of gum disease. Preventative care includes daily brushing and flossing and regular dental check-ups every six months.

Periodontal treatment may involve:

• Scaling – removal of bacteria and calculus from below the gum line
• Root Planing – cleaning and smoothing the tooth roots by removing plaque, tartar, and damaged cementum
• Possible surgical procedures to correct or control defects
• Use of medications and/or antimicrobial mouth rinses when required

Following treatment, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential. While professional treatment thoroughly cleans the affected areas, long-term success depends on consistent daily care and regular dental visits.