Periodontal / Gum Disease Treatment in Norwalk, CA

Gum disease may go by many names (periodontal disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis), but they all refer to the infiltration of bacteria-laden plaque into the gums. When we fail to brush and floss effectively, bacteria may end up sticking between and to the fronts of your teeth. Over time, this accumulates and hardens into plaque, which, when it starts to penetrate below the gum line, causes irritation.

Left untreated, the condition worsens, and a wide range of symptoms can develop, including:

• Bleeding when brushing
• Red, swollen sore gums
• Infections that could spread beyond the gum and to other parts of the body
• Extreme pain

In its most advanced stage, periodontal disease can cause the bone in the jaw and the gums to deteriorate, meaning that your teeth will lose some of their support. In some instances, patients with severe periodontitis may find that they lose one or more teeth due to the condition. The earlier that periodontal disease is diagnosed, the sooner treatments can be offered, improving the likelihood that you will be able to eradicate the condition entirely, before it causes permanent damage to your smile. For residents seeking effective solutions, gum disease treatment in Norwalk, CA, can provide specialized care tailored to manage and reverse the effects of this condition.

Available Treatments for Periodontal Disease

If you have been diagnosed with periodontitis, then there is a range of therapies that may be recommended to you. Nearly all dentists will advocate trying non-surgical therapies first, unless your periodontitis is extremely advanced.

Scaling and root planing

This non-surgical dental treatment is one of the most common when it comes to dealing with periodontal disease. It can be performed by either our dentist or hygienist, and local anesthetic is provided to help you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Scaling and root planing is essentially a deep clean of your teeth and gums, with the aim of removing any plaque or tartar that has spread below the gums, causing periodontal disease. However, it is more involved than a general professional clean. During the scaling, the bacteria are removed from the surface of the tooth and the periodontal pockets. Next, the root surfaces are smoothed, and any infected tooth structure is removed. This part of the process is known as planing.

Antibiotics

ARESTIN is an antibiotic that targets and fights the infection that causes gum disease. ARESTIN isn’t a pill. It’s an antibiotic applied directly at the site of infection, helping you keep gum disease in check.

Perio Protect

Perio Protect home care is doctor-prescribed and patient-applied. When you receive your custom Perio Tray™, your dental team will show you how to place a small amount of prescription medicine in each tray. You wear it for just a few minutes each day. Your dentist will also design a treatment plan specifically for you, as the duration and frequency vary for each patient. The trays are designed with a patented seal to place and hold medication where it is most effective—at the site of infection deep below the gums. A low concentration of hydrogen peroxide gently and thoroughly cleanses the periodontal pockets, combating bacteria, whitening your teeth and freshening your breath.

Nightguard

Some people subconsciously clench or grind their teeth. This is a condition known as bruxism, and studies have shown that it can contribute to the development of periodontal disease. To help reduce the pressure placed on teeth and gums by periodontal disease, some dentists will recommend that you wear a bite guard at night. This could reduce the likelihood that you will develop periodontitis. Scaling and root planing is essentially a deep clean of your teeth and gums, with the aim of removing any plaque or tartar that has spread below the gums, causing periodontal disease. However, it is more involved than a general professional clean. During the scaling, the bacteria are removed from the surface of the tooth and the periodontal pockets. Next, the root surfaces are smoothed, and any infected tooth structure is removed. This part of the process is known as planning.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is the most commonly recommended surgical treatment for periodontal disease. Patients can expect their dentist to reshape the gum line by cutting away any infected tissue. More of the tooth is exposed during this procedure, so it is also often recommended as a cosmetic treatment for patients who have particularly ‘gummy’ smiles.

Laser Gum Surgery in Norwalk, CA

At Add Smiles Dentistry, we use Advanced Laser Treatment to effectively manage and treat gum infections. This cutting-edge therapy employs a precise laser to target and eliminate bacteria in the gums, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional methods. For residents seeking laser gum surgery in Norwalk, CA, our advanced approach provides an innovative solution with impressive results.

Benefits of Laser Treatment:

• Minimally Invasive: No incisions, less bleeding, and faster recovery.
• Precise and Accurate: Targets only infected areas while preserving healthy tissue.
• Comfortable Experience: Reduced pain and swelling.
• Effective Bacterial Control: Helps prevent future infections and promotes faster healing.

For a modern approach to gum infection treatment, consider Laser-Assisted Therapy at our Norwalk, CA, practice. Contact us today to learn more and see if this innovative treatment is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the impact of periodontal disease on overall health?

Periodontal disease can have serious implications beyond oral health. It has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. The inflammation and bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially exacerbating these health conditions.

Q2. What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

Symptoms include bleeding gums, redness, swelling, persistent bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, and pus between teeth and gums.

Q3. How is periodontal disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a dental examination, measuring gum pocket depths, and possibly taking X-rays to assess bone loss around the teeth.

Q4. What treatments are available for periodontal disease?

Treatments vary by severity and include professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery or laser therapy.

Q5. Can periodontal disease be prevented, and if so, how?

Yes, it can be prevented with good oral hygiene: brushing twice daily, flossing, using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly. Avoiding tobacco and maintaining a healthy diet also helps.