4 Important Periodontal Treatments for Your Gum Health From Your Lake Forest Dentist

Healthy gums are necessary for a healthy mouth, so periodontal treatments are important. Whether you currently have gum disease or simply want to prevent it, you can find a treatment that meets your needs.
1. Professional cleaning
People often fail to realize that a professional cleaning is a periodontal treatment. While dentists and dental hygienists ensure the teeth are clean, they also take care of the gums.
Cleaning as a preventative measure
For many people, two dental cleanings a year is enough to prevent gum disease. Dental cleanings are also used as a way to reverse gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can turn into gum disease, so this is very important.
2. Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing is the phrase used for a deep cleaning underneath the gumline. This is the first line of defense when patients have gum disease. It is important to undergo this treatment during the early stages of gum disease to prevent it from progressing.
Scaling
The process begins with scaling. The dentist removes plaque and tartar that has built up in the periodontal pockets.
Root planing
That is followed by root planing. The dentist smoothes the surfaces of the roots so the gum tissue can reattach to it. Medication is often placed in the periodontal pocket during this procedure to promote healing.
3. Pocket reduction surgery
If scaling and root planing fail to prevent the progression of the gum disease, the dentist might recommend pocket reduction surgery. Periodontal pockets hold on to infection-causing plaque and bacteria, and by reducing the size of the pockets, the disease is much easier to control.
What to expect during pocket reduction surgery
During pocket reduction surgery, the dentist lifts the gums back and cleans out all the bacteria. If the bones are damaged, the dentist will also smooth them out.
The dentist replaces the gum tissue so it sits firmly against the teeth — this makes it much more difficult for bacteria to enter the pocket.
4. Bone grafts
Gum disease destroys the bones that are needed to stabilize the teeth. If the bone becomes too weak, a bone graft might be needed. Grafts stimulate bone growth and help stabilize the teeth. This reduces the likelihood that the teeth will become loose and fall out due to gum disease.
What to expect during a bone graft
Dentists begin the procedure by folding back the gums and cleaning out the bacteria. Rough surfaces on the teeth are also smoothed during this process. Then, the bone material is placed under the gums.
The road to gum health
Periodontal treatments are necessary, so you can have healthy gums. Start with regular cleanings at your dentist's office. If you still have issues with your gums, you might need a scaling and root planing procedure, pocket reduction surgery or bone grafts. Your dentist will talk you through your treatment plan, so you can get the healthy gums you want and need.
Request an appointment here: https://stunningsmilesoflakeforest.com or call Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest at (949) 258-7433 for an appointment in our Lake Forest office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Related Posts
Restorative and cosmetic dentistry are dental disciplines that offer similar services. However, they serve distinct purposes and treatment goals. Understanding the differences between a restorative dentist and a cosmetic dentist can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.Restorative dentistry is a dental specialty that focuses primarily on repairing or replacing damaged or missing…
Root canal treatment is often the best (or only) way to deal with an abscessed tooth that results from a tooth infection. This review discusses the role root canal treatment plays in treating an abscessed tooth and what you can expect throughout the diagnostic and treatment processes.An abscessed tooth can affect one’s ability to function…
Are you looking for a restorative dentist for your dental needs? Knowing where to start when beginning this search can be difficult, though you can utilize many resources. That said, you will need to consider a few factors when looking for the right dentist. Continue reading to learn more!Here are a few helpful tips for…
Most people find root canal treatment frightening. This procedure has a bad reputation for being painful and unpleasant. But your dentist has the skills and instruments necessary to handle the process efficiently and with minimal pain. There is a possibility that a patient may have numerous teeth that require extensive treatment. The dentist can assess…