Visiting a Periodontist for Gum Disease Therapy

Gum disease therapy is a way for periodontists to treat a severe form of gum disease known as “periodontitis.” This review discusses what gum disease therapy is and what you can expect when visiting the periodontist for treatment.

What you should know about gum disease therapy from a periodontist

Gum disease therapy is primarily used to treat and possibly reverse symptoms associated with more severe forms of gum disease. A periodontist, who specializes in both gum and jawbone heath (the supporting structures of teeth), can offer gum disease therapy for patients of all ages.

What is gum disease therapy?

Gum disease therapy is a treatment process for periodontitis, which is a more severe type of gum disease (compared to gingivitis). Gum disease therapy may include several treatments in a single plan. Most notably, periodontists usually recommend scaling and root planing (also called deep dental cleaning). This in-office procedure involves removing plaque and bacteria below the gum line and helping the gums to reattach. Periodontists may also provide antibiotics. Other procedures that may be involved with gum disease therapy include pocket reduction surgery, gum grafting, and bone grafting.

Who is the ideal candidate for gum disease therapy?

As mentioned, gum disease therapy from a periodontist is usually recommended for patients that have a severe case of gum disease, which is characterized as “periodontitis.” The following symptoms indicate a potential need for gum disease therapy:

• Swollen gums
• Gum discoloration
• Gum pain and tenderness
• Bleeding gums (while brushing)
• Gum recession
• Bone loss in the jaw
• Deep gum pockets

The best way to determine if gum disease therapy from a periodontist is right for you is to schedule a consultation. This visit can give the periodontist the opportunity to closely examine the gums and determine if the symptoms indicate a need for gum disease therapy.

How can I protect my gums after gum disease therapy?

The periodontist may work with the patient on how to protect their gums after gum disease therapy. This usually includes providing instructions for oral care each day, which should involve brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash daily. They may also recommend avoiding the use of tobacco products and limiting the consumption of foods that are high in sugar and other carbohydrates that can harm the gums.

Why should I choose a periodontist for gum disease therapy?

Periodontists specialize in the gums (and other supporting structures of teeth). This means they can handle the diagnosis of gum disease as well as perform gum disease therapies such as scaling and root planing (also called deep dental cleaning). By choosing a periodontist, which is a gums specialist, you can trust that you are getting the best diagnosis, treatment recommendation, and treatment possible.

Call our periodontal team today to schedule a visit

If you have questions or concerns about your periodontal health and would like to schedule a visit with our periodontal team, then we encourage you to reach out to us today. We offer gum disease therapy and other periodontal services to help you improve and maintain your gum and jawbone health.

Request an appointment here: https://www.westtexasperio.com or call Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (432) 538-3318 for an appointment in our Odessa office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Periodontics in Odessa, TX.