How to manage Periodontitis

Article written byElite Dental Group

Periodontitis is gum disease that causes the soft tissue of the mouth to deteriorate. If left untreated periodontitis can cause teeth to fall while causing severe sensitivity to gums. The main aim of treatment for periodontitis is to reduce the damage that the disease can cause to bones and connective tissue.

Initially a dentist will clean the pockets that have formed around teeth to reduce the spread of infection. Depending on the severity of the case a dentist may use both surgical and non-surgical procedures to treat the condition.

Non-surgical treatments – For mild periodontitis dentists will use minimally invasive procedures. Dentists will start with a dental scaling to remove bacteria and tartar from the surface of teeth. Additionally, root planing will help to reduce plaque and tartar build up. If the dentist’s notices an infection, he may prescribe antibiotics to heal the infection in the area. Topical antibiotics are also used as a mouth rinse or gel depending on the infection.

Surgical treatments – In some cases patients may require dental surgery. In this instance procedures such as flap surgery are suggested to remove large pockets of infection from under the gum line. This procedure will involve an incision that helps to remove the gum tissue to clean the area. Soft tissue grafts are also suggested to patients with severe damage. This procedure involves removing healthy tissue from one area and attaching to the affected site.

To manage periodontitis, it is important that patients follow good oral hygiene to reduce the reoccurrence of the condition. This will mean brushing and flossing at least twice daily while eliminating the use of tobacco and smoking as it can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

Dr. Andre Eliasian is one of the leading dentists in oral surgery in Glendale CA. His clinic offers several services which include fillings, tooth extractions, and complex oral surgeries. If you are looking for wisdom tooth extraction in Glendale or dental implants in Glendale call for an appointment.