Periodontal disease is an inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria. When it develops, patients experience uncomfortable symptoms, such as swelling, bleeding, and eventual gum recession. Luckily, dentists offer multiple types of gum therapy to treat this condition at all of its stages. Below are some of the most common treatments.

How a Dentist Might Address Gum Disease

1. Scaling & Root Planing

Gum disease is caused by a bacteria-laden film on the teeth known as tartar. While regular office cleanings reverse gingivitis, more extensive cleaning is required as the condition progresses to periodontitis. 

Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure appropriate for patients who have advanced gum disease. The process removes bacteria trapped below the gum line and smooths out the root of the tooth to allow a receded gum to reattach. Patients may experience gum or tooth soreness for a few days following their appointments.

2. Local Gel Antibiotics

Antibiotic treatment is used in tandem with scaling to kill bacteria and treat the infection. A dentist may also apply this gel at the first sign of infection to prevent gum disease from progressing.

After a scaling procedure, the dentist applies the antimicrobial gel directly to the gum pockets after scraping away as much plaque as possible using dental instruments. Local gels don’t affect the entire body like oral antibiotics, so the dentist may advise you to use them for several weeks to treat the site.

3. Dental Curettage

For advanced cases of periodontal disease that include gum recession, the soft tissue may be overly damaged.

In this surgical procedure, the dentist removes the tissue that’s pulled away from the tooth using a curette, a sharp, scoop-shaped tool. This procedure removes bacteria and hardened plaque from the site, allowing new, healthy tissue to grow in its place.

If you seek a compassionate dentist to provide gum disease treatment, contact North Chautauqua Dental PC in Dunkirk, NY. They have served patients throughout Chautauqua County since 1980. Their office offers these three types of gum therapy and uses local anesthesia to keep patients comfortable. Learn more about the gum treatments they offer on their website, or call (716) 366-6822 to discuss your symptoms.