Gum disease is a menace, to say the least – it’s estimated that over half of all US adults ages 30 and above have some form of the condition, but it’s not unreasonable to assume that this figure is much higher due to undocumented cases! What’s worse is that this condition is also a leading cause of tooth loss, despite it developing in the gum tissue. Luckily, gum disease can often be managed and its symptoms curbed; it’s just a matter of seeking professional treatment and learning how to prevent infection. Here are a few key questions you should keep in mind as you visit your periodontist for gum disease treatment.
#1. How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Gum disease can be treated in several different ways, depending on the progression of the condition. One of the most common treatments is scaling and root planing, which refers to a pair of procedures that are used to clear out the disease-causing bacteria from beneath the gumline and encourage the gum tissue to reattach to the teeth. In other cases, antibiotics can be used to combat gum disease.
However, above all else, routine dental hygiene is often the most effective buffer against gum disease, meaning that no matter how yours is treated, you’ll want to remain diligent when it comes to brushing and flossing at home.
#2. What Kind of Technology Is Used to Treat Gum Disease?
When it comes to dentistry, modern technology is an absolute boon – staying on top of the most advanced treatment options and technologies allows dentists to easily and efficiently treat conditions like gum disease. Don’t hesitate to ask your provider about what instruments and technology will play a role in treating your gum disease.
You might also inquire about possible sedation options; sedation dentistry is incredibly helpful for patients with dental-related anxiety, and the very prospect of gum disease treatment is sometimes enough to deter people from seeking treatment.
#3. How Often Will I Need Follow-Up Appointments?
Patients with healthy, happy smiles generally need to visit their provider at least twice a year for routine preventive care – and since these visits include a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums, they’re excellent preventive measures against gum disease.
However, patients with gum disease need more particular care and will have to come in for periodontal treatment – and the length and frequency of these appointments will vary based on the extent of the condition. Multiple appointments might be needed in the case of scaling and root planing or antibiotic therapy, for instance. But most commonly, a three-month maintenance time frame is recommended following the initial treatment.
Gum disease is one of those pesky conditions that will only worsen over time and without professional intervention, so it’s always going to be in your best interest to give your dentist a call if you suspect there’s something amiss with your smile. That said, knowing how it’s treated and how it’s prevented can ensure that moving forward, you’ve got things handled!
About the Author
Dr. Karen Littlefield Neil received her DDS from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and has proudly served the dental needs of her hometown, Fort Worth, for several decades. Her practice offers a wide range of services including gum disease treatment, as well as numerous other preventive and restorative services. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to reach out to Dr. Neil’s team to schedule an appointment, feel free to visit them online or call them today for assistance. Telephone: (817) 738-3368.