Gum Disease Treatment Revitalizes Oral Health

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) not only creates oral issues like bleeding and gum recession, but can also put you at risk for other health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications, strokes, and other severe complications. Many patients don’t even know they suffer from periodontal disease until it’s in an advanced stage. We work with patients during routine cleanings and exams to detect early signs of periodontal issues. 

Periodontal disease occurs when food by-products left in the mouth change into bacteria that collect under gum tissue eroding supportive bone. This becomes a vicious, painless cycle. As supporting bone erodes, pockets in gum tissue deepen creating spaces for the bacteria to descend to. Once the pockets form, it is physically impossible for toothbrush bristles to reach the bacteria allowing for the process to continue. Soon tartar or calculus forms which can result in bone loss. Bleeding gums, breath issues, and mobile teeth are indicators of significant periodontal disease. There are steps patients can take to help avoid periodontal disease including maintaining a good diet, strong oral hygiene routine, and having regular exams and cleanings. 

Antibiotic Therapy

While most cases of gum disease treatment start with scaling and root planing, which many patients refer to as a “deep cleaning”, low-dose antibiotic therapy may be used alongside this treatment to ensure bacterial reduction and quicker healing for patients. 

Our office prescribes both oral medication as well as site-specific placement of powdered antibiotics as a mode of therapy. These techniques have been proven to be highly effective in treating several types of periodontal disease. Patients have prescriptions for short or long-term care depending on their individual situations.

Soft Tissue Laser Therapy

Not every case is easy and on occasion, there are areas of the mouth that don’t respond to conventional hygiene or localized antibiotic placement. In these circumstances, we may use a soft tissue laser to aid in the decontamination of pockets and remove harmful bacteria. This simple procedure can be completed during a routine appointment and requires minimal topical numbing gel.