Gum problems — including receding gums, gingivitis and the more serious gum disease — are caused by bacteria that is not removed adequately and/or regularly from the teeth. Eventually this causes tartar to form on the teeth, which irritates and inflames the gums. Pockets filled with bacteria, plaque and tartar often form between the gums and teeth as a result. Periodontal, or gum, treatment, is often necessary in order to prevent deep infection of the gums, which could lead to tooth, tissue and jawbone loss. At Ramona Family Dentistry, we use both periodontal laser therapy and gum tissue grafting to treat more advanced gum problems like gingivitis and gum disease.
WHAT PROBLEMS DOES PERIODONTAL TREATMENT ADDRESS?
You may benefit from periodontal treatment if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Bright red or purple gums
- Receding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Pain while chewing
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN PERIODONTAL LASER THERAPY TREATMENT?
As a treatment for gingivitis or gum disease, periodontal laser therapy involves the use of a dental laser to remove a small portion of inflamed, infected gum tissue around the tooth root. Plaque and tartar are then scraped off from around the root, below the gum line, in a process called root scaling. Once this is done, the laser is used again on the area between the root surface and the tooth, with the laser energy acting to reduce the bacteria in the area and stimulate tissue re-growth. Since most of this process is performed with a laser instead of a scalpel, no incision is made in the gums, and therefore there is less bleeding and discomfort both during and after treatment.
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN GUM TISSUE GRAFTING?
To treat gum recession, the team at Ramona Family Dentistry may recommend a procedure called gum tissue grafting. This treatment is used to protect your teeth from further gum recession, which causes the tooth root to become increasingly exposed and causes tooth sensitivity, particularly with hot and cold foods and beverages. In more advanced stages, gum recession can also lead to tooth loss and jaw bone damage, so it’s important to have this problem treated in its early stages, if possible. The gum tissue grafting procedure involves removing a small amount of soft tissue from the patient’s palate (roof of the mouth) or from another area of gum tissue and then suturing it into place to cover the exposed tooth root.
WHY CHOOSE US FOR YOUR PERIODONTAL TREATMENT?
- We have been performing periodontal laser therapy for years and know how to use this advanced dental technology to achieve the best results
- We stay abreast of the latest dental technology, including laser therapy, to ensure that we provide safe and effective treatments without any potential side effects
- Our dentist reviews show that our patients are satisfied with their results and experienced minimal discomfort after their periodontal treatments
CALL US FOR YOUR PERIODONTAL TREATMENT
Has a dental exam revealed gum problems that include recession, gingivitis or even gum disease? If so, you may have questions about your treatment options. To get your questions answered and to schedule your periodontal treatment, contact us at Ramona Family Dentistry.
