Gum disease is quite common among Americans. According to the FDA, more than 75 percent of Americans over 35 have some form gum disease. This can range from gums that bleed easily to loose teeth. Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Your dentist will determine the best treatment protocol for your gum disease.

Recognizing Gum Disease

Before you can treat gum disease, you have to realize that you have it. Gum disease occurs when bacteria is allowed to grow in the mouth and form plaque. Plaque can harden into tartar. Gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, is characterized by gums that are red and swollen and bleed easily. No bone or tissue damage has occurred at this point, but it is a clear sign that you need to take action. Left untreated, gingivitis becomes periodontitis, which can cause bone and tissue damage that can lead to tooth loss.

See Your Dentist

You should visit your dentist twice a year for cleaning, but if you think a problem might be developing, schedule a checkup as soon as you can. The dentist will check for signs of gum bleeding or swelling as well as firmness. He or she can also take x-rays to see if any damage has been done to the teeth.

Scaling and Root Planing

If the x-rays show some bone damage, your dentist may recommend a procedure called scaling and root planing. Scaling is an in-depth cleaning, where the dentist scrapes your teeth to remove plaque from above and below your gum line. During root planning, the dentist smooths out the roots of your teeth so your teeth can attach to the gums more securely and with fewer gaps where bacteria can take hold.

Medication

Periostat is a medication that suppresses collagenase, the enzyme that destroys teeth and gums. Your dentist may prescribe it, usually be in conjunction with scaling and root planning. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to reduce or eliminate periodontal bacteria.

Surgery

In a worst-case scenario, the dentist may recommend surgery. It can be done in the office with local anesthesia. The surgery is used to repair damage caused by severe gum disease with periodontal membranes and bone-filling material. Other techniques may include using new devices that can help stimulate bone growth, bone grafts, soft-tissue grafts and flap surgery (cutting away the gum in a flap to remove deep tarter and then reattaching the flap).

Source:

Mamas Health.com

Web MD.com

Ora MD.com