Things You Should Know About Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal disease is a chronic gum infection due to poor dental hygiene. It affects the gums, jaw, bone, and teeth and leads to systemic issues. If your dentist diagnoses this disease, they recommend periodontal therapy in Oshawa, ON. Continue reading for things you should know about gum disease therapy.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Gum or periodontal disease refers to the inflammation and infection of the gums. It is caused by poor den hygiene, which results in plaque and tartar buildup. The tartar covers your teeth and slips beneath the gum line leading to inflammation. Gum disease risk factors are hormonal fluctuations, chronic illnesses, and medications. Tobacco use also contributes to the risk.

The symptoms of gum disease are bleeding, persistent bad breath, and gum inflammation. As the disease progresses, your gums will pull away from your teeth. They will form deep pockets that allow bacteria to enter beneath the gum line. As a result, this causes gum recession and also attacks the supporting teeth structures.

Periodontal disease is progressive. It begins with a mild infection called gingivitis. This disease develops into periodontitis if not treated. The condition further progresses into moderate and advanced periodontal disease. If you seek treatment early, your dentist can reverse gingivitis. However, intermediate and advanced periodontitis can only be managed, not cured.

Periodontal disease leads to gum recession, jaw bone loss, and tooth loss if untreated. It can also cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This increases your heart disease, stroke, and diabetes risk. Therefore, you should see a dentist for gum treatment. The expert may recommend periodontal therapy or surgery, depending on the stage of the disease.

What Is Periodontal Therapy?

It is a conservative treatment focusing on controlling and managing periodontal disease. Periodontal therapy helps restore optimal periodontal tissue health and prevent tooth loss. It is the first line of treatment and can help reverse slight periodontitis or gingivitis. The therapy is also effective for moderate chronic periodontitis.

Periodontal Therapy Procedures

• Diagnosis

First, the dentist will diagnose gum disease thoroughly. They will begin with an in-depth probe to check any gum loss attachment and its degree. Then, they will evaluate inside your mouth using an intraoral camera. If the physical exam reveals signs of gum disease, the dentist will proceed to take digital x-rays. The results help the dentist get a quicker, more accurate diagnosis.

• Cleaning

The next step of periodontal therapy is professional cleaning. It focuses on removing the first layer of plaque and tartar. This is regular cleaning that a dentist provides twice yearly. In addition, it helps eliminate food debris and oral bacteria.

• Scaling

Then, the dentist will perform deep cleaning or scaling using ultrasonic cleaning devices. Scaling involves breaking down and removing plaque and tartar from teeth and below the gum line.

• Root Planing

After the deep cleaning, the dentist will do root planing. It consists of scratching away tartar and plaque. After, they smooth out rough spots that impact the tooth root. Root planing promotes gum re-attachment and recovery.

• Medications

Periodontal therapy also involves the use of medications and antimicrobial mouth rinses. They reduce oral bacteria and alleviate gum swelling, shrinking periodontal pockets.

• Aftercare

Periodontal therapy in Oshawa, ON, does not hurt. The dentist will apply an anesthetic on the gum and tooth roots before the procedure. It will help avoid the discomfort associated with scaling and root planing. When the numbing agent wears off after the session, you may experience slight tenderness. Fortunately, the sensation eases after a day or two.

The dentist for gum treatment will advise you on an optimal oral health routine at home after periodontal therapy. For example, you should brush and floss properly after each meal. Also, consume foods that boost your immune and help the gums to heal, like fruits and vegetables.

If the dentist prescribes medication, follow the given dosage. Complete any prescriptions to avoid developing resistance to the medicine. In addition, you should see your dentist every three months. This helps them monitor the state of your gums and teeth.

Contact us at Harmony Dental Care to reclaim healthy gums and a beautiful smile. Our periodontal therapy plan ensures patients receive the necessary treatment. As a result, we prevent gum disease complications. We also replace teeth lost because of periodontitis.