Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease is a severe condition that affects your oral and overall health. It is caused by plaque buildup on your teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is not easily removed by brushing and flossing alone; it requires professional cleaning to remove it thoroughly. When not removed, it can harden into tartar or calculus and begin causing damage in the form of inflammation of the gums and the jawbone. This results in periodontitis – the advanced stage of periodontal disease. Without treatment, it can cause severe damage to your dental health and even result in tooth loss. This is why it is so crucial that you see our dentist regularly at Vose Family Dentistry for oral exams and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Our dentist will be able to evaluate your symptoms and discuss treatment options to restore your health. 

The Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease 

Many unpleasant symptoms are associated with gum disease, including bleeding after brushing or flossing, inflamed gums, and receding gums. However, other symptoms are less noticeable but still essential to be aware of. These include chronic bad breath, loose teeth, and swollen lymph nodes. If you notice any of these signs, you should contact a periodontist as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss. Fortunately, it is never too late to fight and reverse the effects of gum disease! 

Treatments for Gum Disease 

Non-surgical Gum Disease Treatment 

If you have mild to moderate gum disease, your dentist may recommend non-surgical gum therapy to help reduce bacteria and inflammation. A deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing may be recommended. This involves using tools to remove plaque buildup on your teeth' roots and smooth them to prevent bacteria from sticking to them. You may also be prescribed an antimicrobial mouth rinse at home to reduce bacteria levels. Other non-surgical treatments include laser dentistry or topical gels containing antibiotics or antifungals. These can help eliminate harmful bacteria to restore your gums’ health. 

Surgical Gum Disease Treatment 

In surgical treatment for severely infected gums, deep pocket cleaning involves lifting the gum line to remove harmful bacteria and tartar deposits. This helps minimize infection and improve health. The tissue is sutured back into place after the procedure is complete. 

The good news is that with professional treatment and good oral hygiene at home, you can combat the early stages of gum disease and reverse the damage it causes to your mouth. Visit Vose Family Dentistry at 220 E Main St., Mankato, MN 56001, or call (507) 387-2255 to schedule an appointment. We offer effective treatments for gum disease to help our patients maintain a healthy smile!