What is Gum Treatment?

Gum treatment, also known as periodontal therapy, refers to the medical procedures used to treat gum diseases and conditions. These treatments aim to restore the health of the gums and prevent the progression of periodontal diseases.

Importance of Gum Treatment

Gum health is crucial for overall oral health. Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and other serious health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Regular gum treatment helps in:

1. Preventing Tooth Loss: Healthy gums are essential for holding the teeth in place.
2. Reducing Inflammation: Treatment reduces gum inflammation, which can cause pain and discomfort.
3. Preventing Bad Breath: Healthy gums prevent the buildup of bacteria that cause bad breath.
4. Enhancing Aesthetics: Healthy gums contribute to a beautiful smile.

Types of Gum Treatment

1. Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. This non-surgical treatment smooths the root surfaces, making it difficult for bacteria to adhere.

Procedure:

• Scaling: Removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline.
• Root Planing: Smooths the roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth.

2. Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics can be used to treat gum infections. They can be applied directly to the gums or taken orally to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

Common Antibiotics:

• Doxycycline
• Minocycline
• Chlorhexidine

3. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a laser to remove infected gum tissue and bacteria. It promotes healing and reduces discomfort and recovery time.

Benefits:

• Less bleeding and swelling
• Faster healing
• Reduced risk of infection

4. Surgical Treatments

a. Flap Surgery

Flap surgery involves lifting the gums to remove tartar deposits in deep pockets. The gums are then stitched back into place, reducing the pocket size.

Procedure:

• An incision is made to lift the gums.
• Tartar is removed from deep pockets.
• Gums are stitched back to reduce pocket depth.

b. Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is used when gum disease has destroyed the bone surrounding the tooth root. A graft is placed to regenerate lost bone.

Procedure:

• A bone graft is placed in the affected area.
• The bone regenerates, providing a stable foundation for teeth.

c. Soft Tissue Grafts

Soft tissue grafts involve taking tissue from another part of the mouth and attaching it to the affected gum area to cover exposed roots and strengthen thin gums.

Procedure:

• Tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or another donor site.
• It is grafted onto the affected area to cover exposed roots.