What Are Gum Treatments?

Periodontal (gum) treatment refers to procedures that are used to treat gum disease and improve the health of the gums. The following is a list of common periodontal treatments:

 

• Scaling and Root Planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface, both above and below the gum line. It also smooths the root surfaces to discourage future bacterial growth.

 

• Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation in the gums.

 

•  Surgical Procedures: In advanced cases of gum disease, surgery may be necessary to remove infected or damaged tissue and to repair or regenerate the affected area. Some examples of surgical procedures include flap surgery, bone grafting, and tissue regeneration.

 

• Laser Therapy: It’s a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to remove bacteria and diseased tissue while promoting healing and regeneration of healthy tissue.

 

• Medications: Medications such as oral rinses, gels, or toothpastes may be prescribed to help control inflammation and promote healing of the gums.

 

• Regular Maintenance Visits: After initial treatment, it’s important to have regular maintenance visits with the dentist or periodontist to monitor the health of the gums and to address any issues that may arise.

It’s important to note that the success of periodontal treatment depends on the patient’s commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene and seeing a dentist or periodontist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Additionally, it’s important to address any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to gum disease such as diabetes or smoking.