Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a widespread condition that affects the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. It progresses in stages, from mild inflammation to severe infection, and could ultimately result in tooth loss if left untreated. Recognizing the stages and understanding the available treatment options are crucial for maintaining good oral health.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be cleaned by a dental professional. This buildup leads to gum irritation and inflammation. Contributing factors include smoking, hormonal changes, certain illnesses (like diabetes), medications that reduce saliva flow, and poor oral hygiene habits.
Early Stage of Gum Disease: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest and most common stage of gum disease. It is caused by plaque buildup along the gumline and is characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. At this stage, the damage is still reversible. Consistent oral hygiene practices and professional cleanings are usually sufficient to restore gum health. Many people may have gingivitis without realizing it, which makes routine dental visits essential for early detection.
Progression to Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis. In this stage, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets that collect debris and bacteria. These pockets can become infected. As the body’s immune system fights the bacteria, it starts to break down the connective tissue and bone that hold teeth in place. This stage often leads to gum recession, persistent bad breath, and mild to moderate tooth mobility.
Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease. The pockets deepen further, bone is lost, and teeth may loosen or fall out. Gums can shrink significantly, and chewing can become painful. At this point, the damage is usually irreversible, and aggressive treatment is necessary to prevent further deterioration.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For early and moderate cases, non-surgical treatments can be very effective. Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure where plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gumline. The root surfaces are smoothed to help gums reattach to the teeth. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and may be completed over multiple visits.
Antibiotics may be used in conjunction with deep cleaning to help reduce infection. These can be topical (like mouth rinses or gels applied directly to the gums) or systemic (oral antibiotics). Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home is also essential to support healing and prevent recurrence.
Surgical Treatment Options
When non-surgical methods are not sufficient, surgical options may be required. Flap surgery (or pocket reduction surgery) involves lifting back the gums to remove tartar and then securing the gums snugly around the teeth to reduce pocket depth. Bone grafts could help regenerate lost bone using natural or synthetic material. Similarly, soft tissue grafts could cover exposed roots or build up receding gums. Guided tissue regeneration is another technique that encourages regrowth of bone and tissue by placing a barrier membrane under the gums.
Long-Term Maintenance and Prevention
Successful treatment of gum disease doesn’t end with a procedure. Long-term maintenance is crucial to keep the disease from returning. Patients are usually placed on a more frequent cleaning schedule, often every three to four months instead of the typical six. Practicing good oral hygiene at home, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and managing underlying conditions like diabetes can significantly improve gum health.
Gum Disease Treatment in Arlington Heights, IL
At AH Smiles, we are dedicated to helping you maintain your oral health. If you notice early sign of disease, there could be time to reverse progression. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to maintain your gum health.