GUM TREATMENT:
Gum treatment is very complex and requires dedication from both the dentist a patient and more so from the patient.
Gum disease is in most cases not painful , therefore, many patients do not know that they have any problems in the gum.
- How would I know if I had gum disease?
There are some signs that suggest gum disease which are:
• Bleeding gums
• Having red gum
• Swollen gums
• Moving teeth
• Presence of plaque & calculus
• Long teeth (exposed roots)
• Large gaps in between teeth
• Loosening of teeth with no decay
- Are there different types of gum disease and what is the different between them?
Yes, there are. They are generally divided into two broad categories:
1. Gum Disease without pockets (Gingivitis)
2. Gum disease with pockets (Periodontitis)
- Treatment steps:
1. First line of treatment involves teaching the patient proper oral hygiene techniques includes tooth brushing and flossing.
2. Next is general cleaning of the gums and teeth which involves removing plaque & calculus.
3. Then the dentist may schedule a number of deep cleaning visits which is normally done under local anesthesia especially in the case of gum disease with pockets. This also may involve surgery to allow the dentist to clean the pockets thoroughly & under clear vision.
4. Review visit, that could be at the beginning every 3-6 months depending on the case. The dentist will be looking for signs of closure of the pockets & good home cleaning practice.
Remember : the success of gum treatment depends greatly on the oral hygiene practice at home