Periodontal disease is a dental health condition that causes problems from bad breath to tooth loss and systemic inflammation. Fortunately, all stages of gum disease are treatable. If you’re unfamiliar with this condition, below are a few ways dentists treat and prevent it.

Common Treatments for Periodontal Disease

1. Improving Your Daily Routine

Your dentist will suggest upgrading your dental care routine to prevent the condition from worsening. They’ll recommend using a different toothbrush, such as a mechanical version, to gently but effectively scrub debris off the teeth’s surface. Dentists will also give tips about how frequently to brush and floss to remove as much plaque and bacteria as possible. 

2. Prescribing Medication 

If improving your oral hygiene routine doesn’t help, your dentist will recommend certain medications to kill the bacteria that may have colonized inside your mouth. Examples include antibacterial mouthwashes or toothpastes, which may be more effective at fighting gum disease. 

3. Scaling & Root Planing

If better daily hygiene and prescription medication aren’t enough to help, your dentist will perform scaling and root planing under local anesthetic to physically remove bacteria from the surface of your teeth. During this procedure, your dentist will gently clean your teeth above and below the gumline, then smooth the area to prevent plaque, tartar, and bacteria from sticking.

Whether you’ve been struggling with gum disease for quite some time or you have been experiencing new symptoms, the team at BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK, will help. The team provide an array of services, including routine examinations. They will thoroughly inspect your mouth for signs of tooth decay, bleeding gums, and periodontal disease. They’ll craft a customized dental plan to restore your oral health. To request an appointment, call (907) 486-3257. Visit them online to browse their services, including cosmetic and emergency dentistry.