Gum Disease Treatment Northborough
Stop Gum Disease in Its Tracks
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues among adults; according to some estimates, it affects nearly half of the people in the U.S.! At Northborough Dental Associates, our team is committed to helping you stop gum disease in its tracks. That is why we offer thorough preventive care and, when necessary, gum disease treatment to address an existing infection. Would you like to learn more about this service? Continue reading below, or contact our office to ask questions.
Why Choose Northborough Dental Associates for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Effective Scaling and Root Planing Therapy
- Experienced & Skilled Dental Team
- Multiple Payment Options Available
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the pink soft tissue that surrounds the teeth. It occurs when plaque and bacteria are allowed to proliferate in the mouth and sneak beneath the gumline. Poor oral hygiene, unwise eating choices, smoking, and genetics can be major contributors to its development.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and can often be reversed via conservative means. Periodontitis is more advanced and can cause irreversible damage to the gums and underlying bone tissue.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause a number of different symptoms. You might have gingivitis if you are experiencing:
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen, red gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss
- Tender gums
Periodontitis also causes bad breath, swelling, and bleeding. However, it can lead to additional problems, including:
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- Changes in bite
- Changes in the way dentures fit
- Loss of permanent teeth
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
There are different ways to address gum disease. If your infection is very mild, we may coach you on how you can reverse it at home via thorough oral hygiene. In cases where the infection is a bit more advanced, we may recommend scaling and root planing.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a common way to address gum disease. It basically amounts to a deep cleaning of the mouth. Its goal is to remove disease-causing harmful bacteria from the oral cavity and reduce the risk of future reinfection. It is an effective nonsurgical way to address many mild to moderate cases of gum disease.
Do I Need Scaling & Root Planing?
Some minor cases of gum disease can be reversed via positive changes to an at-home oral care routine. In many situations, though, scaling and root planing is necessary. You might need this treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as:
- Red, swollen gums that bleed easily when you brush and floss
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession
Our team will evaluate your gums and let you know what we recommend for your next steps.
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing may take place over one or more appointments. It has two main stages:
- During scaling, we use special instruments to remove plaque and bacteria from both above and below the gumline, including inside the pockets that form between the gums and tooth roots.
- During root planing, we carefully smooth out the roots of the teeth so it is more difficult for harmful bacteria to cling to them. This step is important for reducing the risk of future reinfection.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a somewhat intensive treatment, and it might take a few weeks for your mouth to return to feeling normal. In the meantime, here are some tips that can support your body’s recovery process:
- Regularly rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and clean your oral cavity.
- Be very gentle when brushing and flossing your teeth.
- Eat only soft foods that will not irritate your sensitive oral tissues.
- Take any medications as prescribed by our team.
- Contact us if you have questions or concerns at any point during your recovery.