Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can range from simple inflammation to something more serious that destroys your gum tissue and bones and can end up resulting in lost teeth. Once infection escalates into gum disease, it pulls the gums away from the teeth to create pockets that are prone to further infection. If your teeth and surrounding areas are not properly cared for, it isn’t hard to contract gum disease. You can help prevent this disease by flossing twice daily, regularly flossing, and keeping up with your regular dental cleanings! However, we unfortunately hear it all the time: what do I do if I have gum disease?
How Did I Get Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by a build-up of bacteria in your mouth. This bacteria turns into plaque and tartar, which is extremely difficult to clean yourself. If the plaque and tartar are left on your teeth, they can cause Gingivitis – a more mild form of gum disease. Periodontitis occurs once Gingivitis goes untreated and the infection begins to take over and form aforementioned “pockets” where the infection can reach the bones of your teeth.
What Are My Treatment Options?
There are several different treatment options that may be recommended to you. Usually, this begins with a deep cleaning done by your Periodontist known as scaling. Scaling is done to remove all of the tartar that is affecting your gums. This is done to control the infection by removing the bacteria that is causing it.
Another treatment option is to use medication to control the infection. There are several different types of medication that can be used in this case. Depending on your situation, you dentist may recommend that you use some type of antibiotic gel to fight your infection as opposed to oral antibiotics – or vice versa.
For more severe cases, oral surgery may be necessary. However, dentistry has become so advanced nowadays that if you have lost teeth due to gum disease, you have many different options for replacing your teeth that look, feel, and function incredibly naturally.
