Gum Disease Treatment
Gum Disease Treatment in San Antonio, Texas
Gum disease may start out as a minor issue, and you may even be tempted to ignore the symptoms. However, without general dental treatment, it is a very serious condition.
Neglect can have serious implications for your general health and well-being. Getting a diagnosis and treating the condition in its earliest stages is essential in order to prevent the problems that more serious phases of the disease can lead to.
Your dental exam will reveal any problems that may be on the horizon with your soft tissues. When the hygienist measures your gums, the measurements provide information regarding the health of the gums. Deep pockets between the tooth and the gums indicate a problem. The severity of the problem dictates the treatment plan. Mild cases of gingivitis or gum disease may involve something as simple as switching to prescribed toothpaste and using a special mouthwash. In the early stages, gum disease is easily reversed. More severe cases may require extensive treatment, such as surgery.
Regular professional dental care will help keep gum disease in check. However, when it is present, treatment needs to be implemented as soon as possible in order to restore your oral health. Treatment begins with a proper diagnosis and an assessment of the extent of the problem. All forms of gum disease require a professional cleaning of the teeth in order to remove the plaque and tartar buildup. Special instruments are used to do this.
Next, the teeth are smoothed down with planing instruments so that the gums can reattach. Additional procedures, such as laser treatment depend on the severity of the condition. Laser gum treatment is virtually painless, minimizes discomfort, reduces the chances of infection or bleeding, and promotes faster healing times.
Once it has been determined how severe the disease is, you will be advised of the best course of treatment. It is important for you to understand what to expect and how to care for your gums at home. Follow up visits may be necessary are you are encouraged to keep up with them so that the healing process can be monitored.
Symptoms and Causes of Gum Disease
Plaque buildup on the teeth begins the cycle of gum disease. This clear sticky substance adheres to the teeth and can build up underneath the gums. When it is not cleaned out thoroughly, it hardens into tartar or calculus and begins to push the gums away from the teeth.
Untreated, the buildup continues causing the gums to become red and inflamed. Occasionally they may bleed. Toxins are formed as the body’s immune system fights against the chemicals produced by the plaque and tartar and the combination begins to deteriorate the bone causing the teeth to be loose in the jaw. Eventually, the teeth will fall out.
Learning how to properly care for your teeth and gums along with regular dental checkups and cleanings can keep gum disease at bay. However, it is important to realize that even the best home care needs supplemental professional cleaning to keep gum disease from developing.
If you suspect you or a family member may have gum disease, contact Huebner Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation.
