Periodontal Treatments

Periodontal treatment is essential for managing gum disease, a common condition affecting the gums and the supporting tissues of the teeth. It typically involves a combination of non-surgical techniques like scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line and surgical interventions such as flap surgery or bone grafts in more severe cases.

Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and addressing risk factors like smoking or diabetes are crucial for successful treatment outcomes and preventing complications such as tooth loss and systemic health issues associated with untreated gum disease. Early detection and prompt intervention by a dental professional are crucial to preserving gum health and maintaining a healthy, functional smile. 

When Is Periodontal Treatment Necessary?

• Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease characterized by inflamed gums that may bleed easily during brushing or flossing. Prompt treatment can reverse gingivitis and prevent it from progressing to more severe forms of periodontal disease. 

• As gum disease advances, it can lead to periodontitis, where gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. This can cause bone loss and loosen teeth. Periodontal treatment aims to reduce pocket depths, eliminate infection, and restore gum health. 

• Certain factors increase the risk of developing gum disease, including smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause), genetics, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for identifying and addressing these risk factors early. 

The Importance of Periodontal Treatment 

Prevention of Tooth Loss

If left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that harbor bacteria and lead to bone loss. Periodontal treatment helps halt this progression, preserving the supportive structures around the teeth and preventing tooth loss. 

Reduction of Gum Inflammation and Bleeding

Gingivitis and periodontitis cause gums to become inflamed and bleed easily, especially when brushing and flossing. Periodontal treatment such as scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar buildup, reducing inflammation and promoting healthier gums.  

Improved Oral Health

Healthy gums are essential for maintaining overall oral health. Periodontal treatment addresses gum disease and helps prevent other oral health issues such as bad breath, receding gums, and sensitive teeth. 

Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance

Gum disease can lead to gum recession and tooth root exposure, affecting the appearance of your smile. Periodontal care, by preserving gum tissue through effective treatment, contributes to a more aesthetically pleasing smile. 

Support for Systemic Health

Research suggests a link between gum disease and systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory infections. By minimizing systemic inflammation and bacterial burden, managing gum disease through periodontal treatment may help reduce the risk or severity of these conditions. 

Long-Term Cost Savings

Early intervention with periodontal treatment can prevent the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures in the future, such as tooth extractions, dental implants, or extensive gum surgeries. Contact us today to learn more.

Personal Comfort and Well-Being

Periodontal treatment can alleviate discomfort associated with gum disease, such as gum tenderness, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing. This improves your overall comfort and quality of life. 

Maintaining Tooth Functionality

Healthy gums provide essential support for your teeth, allowing you to chew and speak correctly without discomfort or difficulty. 

Types of Periodontal Treatments 

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure that involves deep cleaning the teeth and root surfaces to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins. Dental professionals use special tools to clean above and below the gum line during scaling. Root planing is then performed to smooth out the root surfaces, which helps the gums reattach to the teeth. This treatment reduces inflammation and bleeding, promotes healing, and prevents the progression of periodontal disease.  

Periodontal Surgery

Periodontal surgery is necessary when non-surgical treatments aren't sufficient to manage periodontal disease. This type of surgery includes flap surgery, where gums are lifted to remove tartar and smooth out damaged bone, and bone or soft tissue grafts to regenerate lost or gum tissue. Other procedures like guided tissue regeneration and crown lengthening address specific issues. Surgery reduces pocket depths, promotes regeneration, and improves the function and appearance of the gums.  

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a minimally invasive treatment for gum disease that uses concentrated light energy to remove infected tissue and bacteria. Lasers can precisely target diseased areas, reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing with minimal discomfort. Laser therapy can be used with other periodontal treatments to enhance effectiveness and improve patient outcomes. 

Gingivectomy

A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing and reshaping loose, diseased gum tissue to eliminate pockets between the teeth and gums. This procedure is often used to treat advanced gum disease or to remove excess gum tissue that may be causing aesthetic or functional issues. Reducing periodontal pockets helps prevent bacteria accumulation and promotes healthier gums. 

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a regenerative procedure used to rebuild bone lost to severe gum disease. This treatment involves placing synthetic, autogenous (from the patient), or allogeneic (from a donor) bone graft material into areas with insufficient bone. Bone grafting helps support dental implants, stabilizes teeth, and restores bone structure, improving oral health and function. 

Periodontal treatment is critical for managing gum disease and preserving oral health. Visit Granite View Dental at 1030 E 11400 S, Suite 2, Sandy, UT 84094, or call (801) 255-2100 to get the professional care you need to maintain optimal gum health and overall well-being. Early intervention and proper treatment can make a significant difference in maintaining healthy gums and a beautiful smile for years to come.