Gum Disease Treatment

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. There are numerous disease entities requiring different treatment approaches. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Daily brushing and flossing will prevent most periodontal conditions.

Why is oral hygiene so important?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases, (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.

Periodontal diseases can be accelerated by a number of different factors. However, it is mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).

Periodontal Disease

What is gum disease?

Gum disease—also known as periodontal disease—is a bacterial infection that can, over time, harm the gums and bone that support your teeth which may lead to permanent bone loss and eventual tooth loss.
If the infection is not treated, the gums can begin to pull back, creating pockets of diseased tissue between the teeth and gums. As a pocket deepens, the tooth can become less supported, and bacteria can spread even deeper.
If you have pockets that get deeper over time, it can be a sign that gum disease is getting worse. If the pockets become less deep, it can be a positive sign that treatment is working.

What is scaling and root planing (SRP)?

SRP involves removing bacteria and calculus deposits deep within the pockets so the tissues can become healthy. SRP is highly effective at removing visible plaque and tartar and bacteria, but often cannot reach to the base of deep pockets.
A combination approach that pairs SRP with the antibiotic ARESTIN (minocycline HCl) may be used especially on deepest pockets.

ARESTIN is placed directly into the gum pocket at the site of the gum infection.

Following Scaling and Root Planing some minor discomfort and swelling may occur. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are usually helpful. Rinsing with warm salt water (1⁄2 tsp. salt per glass of warm water) may also assist in relieving discomfort and aid in the healing process. Temporary sensitivity to cold after Scaling and Root Planing is considered normal.

Periodontal Maintenance

Fighting gum disease takes time, and healing happens gradually. Your periodontal health will be re-evaluated at the next appointment, called Periodontal Maintenance. At that time an assessment will be made of the remaining pocket depths, bone loss, and the effectiveness of your daily home care. Recommendations will be given for ongoing maintenance visits or additional treatment that might be needed for your periodontal health. In advanced cases further treatment may involve seeing a specialist called a Periodontist.

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.

Learn more about periodontal maintenance through our ADA Patient Education library.