Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue that can lead to bleeding, inflammation, and the condition of the gums and jawbone. Periodontitis can lead to bone loss in the jaw, tooth movement, and loose teeth if left untreated.

When plaque buildup isn’t removed correctly, the toxins from the bacterial buildup irritate the gums. This causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and form gaps between the teeth and gums called pockets. Bacteria and debris can get trapped within these pockets and cause further damage to the underlying bone and supporting tissue. As these pockets deepen, they can create permanent periodontal damage, such as bone loss. When the bones are affected in this way, they can cause the teeth to loosen and even fall out.

Types of Gum Disease Treatments

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a conservative treatment that can be performed in your general dentist’s office. The goal of treatment is to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from the gum pocket around your teeth. This will reduce the depth of the pockets so that bacteria cannot hide and thrive. The reduction of bacteria will reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Antibiotic Treatment

Antibiotics are effective for treating gingivitis because they target the bacteria that cause the disease. However, taking the entire course of antibiotic treatments is crucial to rid yourself of gum disease completely.

Laser Treatment

If you are suffering from gum disease and are looking for a quick and effective way to get your oral health back on track, a laser gum treatment may be just what you need to get back on track. Using lasers to perform gum therapy is also known as laser periodontics because of the benefits that lasers offer to patients undergoing periodontal treatments. Unlike traditional tools, such as scalpels and curettes, lasers cauterize tissue as they work and do not damage healthy gum tissues, which allows the dentist to work more quickly and comfortably for the patient. The lasers are also more precise than manual tools, which means treatments are more thorough and more comfortable for you.

During your laser gum treatment, the dentist will use a soft tissue laser to treat the damaged areas around your teeth and the pockets that form between your teeth and gums. This will help your gums become healthier and allow your gums to reattach to the roots of your teeth. A laser treatment will also add a topical antibiotic solution that will help fight the bacteria that cause gum disease and promote healing. The dentist may also recommend an at-home oral health routine to help you maintain results and prevent further disease from developing in the future.