Gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions, and it often develops gradually, often going unnoticed until symptoms become more difficult to ignore. Factors like genetics and overall health can raise your risk, but everyday habits have the greatest influence. When plaque lingers along the gumline, inflammation takes hold, and over time, it can progress into a deeper infection that affects both the gums and the supporting bone. At Atkins Dental Clinic, we guide you toward the best treatment for gum disease so you can restore a healthier foundation for your smile.
Our approach focuses on early detection, steady maintenance, and personalized treatment designed to protect your long-term oral health. We work with you to restore stability, rebuild healthy tissue, and create a plan that supports a stronger foundation for the future.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common condition affecting the gums and bones supporting our teeth. It’s often caused by poor oral hygiene, which leads to plaque buildup. When not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, further irritating your gums.
Gum disease progresses through several stages, each with its own symptoms and treatment options:
- Gingivitis: This initial stage is characterized by red gums that have swelled and may bleed easily. Fortunately, it’s reversible with good oral hygiene and professional dental care.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis goes untreated, it may develop into periodontitis. At this point, the gums start to recede from the teeth, leaving openings vulnerable to infection. The body’s immune response causes the breakdown of bone and connective tissue. This causes the teeth to become loose.
- Advanced periodontitis: This final stage is characterized by severe inflammation, significant loss of bone support, and deep pockets forming between the gums and teeth. In this stage, teeth may become loose, and there’s a heightened risk of tooth loss. As the infection progresses, it can affect the surrounding tissues, leading to potential complications.
Preventative measures for gum disease are simple enough. These issues can be effectively managed through brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. However, should the disease progress, we offer treatment options to preserve oral health.
What Is the Best Treatment Option for Gum Disease?
When treating gum disease, the approach varies depending on the severity of the condition. At your consultation, Dr. Aaron will assess the health of your gums and teeth and determine the best course of action.
- Professional cleaning: During your regular checkup, Dr. Aaron will remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. If you show signs of gingivitis, he may recommend more frequent cleanings.
- Scaling and root planing: This deep-cleaning procedure is often performed under local anesthesia. Scaling involves scraping off the tartar from above and below the gum line, while root planing targets areas where plaque and tartar have accumulated.
- Flap or pocket reduction surgery: For severe periodontitis, Dr. Aaron may recommend surgery to lift the gums back and remove tartar. This helps to limit the space between the gum and tooth, limiting the areas where bacteria can grow.
- Laser gum therapy: We may also utilize laser treatment, an emerging technology in dental care, for treating periodontitis. Lasers provide a less invasive, more comfortable alternative to surgery and are precise in targeting diseased areas.
- Medication: Dr. Aaron might prescribe antibiotics to help control bacterial infection. These could be in the form of mouth rinses or gels applied directly in the gum pockets after scaling and root planing, or as antibiotic tablets to control bacteria and reduce the size of periodontal pockets.
In some instances, gum disease treatment may not be able to save the existing tooth. If this is the case, we offer restoration options with mini dental implants.
How Mini Dental Implants Support Your Smile After Tooth Loss
Tooth loss from gum disease can lead to bone loss, which often limits treatment options. Mini dental implants are designed to work in cases like these. They are smaller than traditional implants and can often be placed without the need for bone grafting or extensive surgery.
Because of their size, mini implants allow for:
- Minimally invasive placement
- Fewer appointments
- Shorter healing times
They support a wide range of restorations, including crowns, bridges, and full dentures. By simplifying the process and reducing recovery time, mini implants make long-term tooth replacement possible for more patients.
Explore Your Best Gum Disease Treatment Path Today
If gum disease or tooth loss is on your mind, connecting with a trusted dental team can help you approach your care more effectively. Dr. Aaron and our staff focus on thoughtful assessment and treatment options built around your situation, your comfort, and your long-term health. Reach out today for a consultation. We’ll walk through your concerns together and help you choose a path that supports a stronger, healthier smile.
