Periodontal Disease Treatment In Saint Paul, MN

Periodontal disease treatment aims to halt the progression of gum disease and restore oral health. The process typically begins with a thorough assessment of the gums and underlying bone structure to determine the extent of the disease. Initial treatment often involves professional dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gumline. For more advanced cases, scaling and root planing are performed to deeply clean the root surfaces and smooth out rough areas where bacteria accumulate. In severe instances, surgical interventions such as flap surgery or gum grafts may be necessary to reduce pocket depths and regenerate damaged tissues.

Throughout treatment, patient education on oral hygiene practices and regular follow-ups are essential to manage and prevent periodontal disease recurrence, preserving dental health and overall well-being.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It typically begins with bacterial growth in the mouth and, if not properly managed, can progress to inflammation and infection of the gums (gingivitis), eventually damaging the tissues and bones that support the teeth (periodontitis). Early detection through regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, are essential in preventing and managing periodontal disease to maintain oral health and prevent tooth loss.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

• Healthy gums should not bleed during regular brushing or flossing. Bleeding gums, especially without provocation, can indicate gum inflammation (gingivitis) or more advanced periodontal disease.
• Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with oral hygiene measures can indicate the presence of bacteria in the mouth, which is common in periodontal disease.
• When gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth's root, it can be a sign of gum disease. This can make the teeth appear longer than usual.
• Healthy gums are pink and firm. Inflammation caused by periodontal disease can make gums appear swollen, tender, or red.
• Discomfort or pain while chewing can occur as the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing sensitive roots or due to infections in the gum pockets.
• Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks can be a symptom of gum recession or enamel erosion, both of which can accompany periodontal disease.
• As periodontal disease progresses, the supporting bone and fibers holding the teeth in place can deteriorate. This can cause teeth to become loose or shift position.

Types of Periodontal Disease Treatment

Nonsurgical Treatments

Nonsurgical treatments are typically the first line of defense against early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) and can also be effective for some cases of mild to moderate periodontitis:

• Professional dental cleaning: Our dentist in Saint Paul, MN performs regular dental cleanings (prophylaxis) to remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line. This helps prevent the progression of gingivitis and early-stage periodontitis.
• Scaling and root planing: Also known as deep cleaning, scaling, and root planing, it involves removing plaque and tartar from deep pockets around the teeth and smoothing out the root surfaces to prevent bacteria from reattaching. This procedure by our dentist helps to reduce inflammation and promote gum healing.
• Antibiotic therapy: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation. They can be administered orally, topically (as mouth rinses or gels), or directly into periodontal pockets during scaling and root planing.

Surgical Treatments

When periodontal disease has progressed to an advanced stage and nonsurgical treatments are insufficient, surgical interventions may be necessary to restore gum health and prevent further deterioration:

• Flap surgery: This procedure involves lifting the gums to access and clean deeper periodontal pockets. The underlying root surfaces may be smoothed out, and any irregularities may be treated to reduce pocket depth and make it easier to keep the area clean.
• Bone grafts: Severe periodontitis can lead to bone loss around the teeth. Bone grafting involves placing bone or bone-like materials into the affected areas to promote bone regeneration and support teeth affected by bone loss.
• Gum grafts: When gum recession occurs due to periodontal disease, gum grafts can be performed to cover exposed tooth roots and restore gum tissue. This procedure helps to protect the roots from sensitivity, decay, and further gum recession. Contact us today to learn more.

Maintenance and Ongoing Care

After periodontal treatment, maintenance and regular follow-up care are crucial to prevent recurrence of gum disease and maintain oral health:

• Periodontal maintenance: This involves regular dental visits for professional cleanings and examinations to monitor the health of the gums and teeth, remove plaque and tartar buildup, and address any signs of disease recurrence early.
• Patient education: Proper oral hygiene practices, including effective brushing and flossing techniques and the importance of regular dental visits, are essential in preventing periodontal disease and maintaining long-term oral health.

Periodontal disease treatment in Saint Paul, MN, is essential for maintaining oral health and preventing the progression of gum disease. If you suspect you may have gum disease, visit Hillcrest Dental Center at 1762 Iowa Ave East, Saint Paul, MN 55106, or call (651) 771-6464 to schedule a dental appointment promptly to discuss your symptoms and explore appropriate treatment options tailored to your oral health needs.