Periodontal disease treatment is aimed at eliminating the inflammation and damage caused by the supporting tissues of the gums and jawbone. This disease can range from mild forms of gum inflammation (gingivitis) to severe periodontitis, which damages the gums, bones, and ligaments that hold the teeth in place. If periodontal disease is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss because the support of the jawbone is reduced and the teeth may become loose.
Stages of periodontal disease treatment:
- Treatment of early stages (gingivitis): When the disease is still in its early stages (gingivitis), improving daily oral hygiene, such as brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwashes, is often enough. It is also recommended to visit a dentist for a professional cleaning to remove tartar and plaque that can cause gingivitis.
- Deep cleaning (scaling and scaling): If the disease has progressed to periodontitis, where the gums have already receded from the teeth and the jawbone has been damaged, a deep scaling (scaling and scaling) procedure is necessary. During this procedure, the dentist removes tartar and soft plaque that has accumulated under the gums. This is done using special instruments to clean out the gum pockets and reduce inflammation.
- Antibiotics and medications: In the case of periodontitis, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to fight the causes of gingivitis. Antibiotics can be either oral or topical (e.g., gels applied directly to the gums).
- Surgical treatment: If conservative methods do not produce the desired results or if periodontal disease is extensive, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical treatment may include cutting and removing the gums (gingivectomy), lifting the gums upward, and bone grafting to restore lost bone support. It may also be necessary to secure or stabilize the teeth using specialized techniques.
- Follow-up and regular follow-up: After treatment, it is important to monitor the condition of the gums and teeth regularly to prevent recurrence of the disease. Typically, gum cleanings are necessary every 3 to 6 months to keep the disease under control and ensure gum health.
Treatment of periodontal disease is important not only for oral health, but also for the well-being of the entire body, as studies have shown that periodontal disease can affect the development of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Timely and thorough treatment helps to preserve not only the teeth, but also overall health.