When bacteria build up in the pockets around your gums, the tissue can become infected, red, and swollen. Consequently, the importance of routine cleanings and maintenance cannot be stressed enough. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontitis and is the by-product of plaque that has gone undisturbed and hardened into tartar. This bacteria will build up in the pockets of your gums, causing sensitivity, bleeding, and, if left untreated, tooth loss.
Gum disease cannot be treated at home and should only be handled by an experienced dental team, such as ours at Enso Dental Arts. With a focus on your overall health, comfort, and experience, Dr. Hiruma and her team are here to immediately diagnose your gum disease and begin a personalized plan of treatment to ease your discomfort and restore your oral health.
4 Ways Your Dentist Can Effectively Treat Your Gum Disease
When you schedule your appointment with Enso Dental Arts, our in-office specialist will begin with a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. Once all potential problems and causes of your discomfort have been identified, we will build a unique treatment plan for your specific needs.
When it comes to eradicating gum disease, our periodontist, Dr. Kevin Chen, will typically take the following steps:
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are needed to thoroughly clean your gums and teeth, focusing on removing calculus buildup below the gum line. This procedure requires local anesthesia and helps to remove calculus and smooth out the tooth roots, which makes it harder for bacteria to adhere in the future. It also promotes healthy reattachment of the gums to your teeth.
Antibiotic Treatment
Antibiotics may be used to reduce bacterial infection in the gums. Depending on the severity of the gum disease, Dr. Chen can apply antibiotic irrigation directly to the affected areas or prescribe oral antibiotics. This treatment alone is typically not enough to eradicate the gum disease entirely, so it is often combined with other therapies for optimal results.
Laser Dentistry Therapy
Laser therapy is a modern approach to treating gum disease that uses focused, minimally invasive light to remove inflamed gum tissue and bacteria. Enso Dental Arts is proud to offer MVP-7 laser, which is currently the only laser offering that is FDA-approved to fight and reverse gum disease. The LANAP® treatment option is less invasive than traditional methods, leading to faster healing times and less discomfort for patients.
Restorative Intervention
In more severe cases of gum disease, procedures like open flap surgery or grafting may be necessary to repair damaged tissue and bone. Extraction and root canals can also be recommended in severe cases.
Restorative intervention may help restore gum health by reducing pocket depth and regenerating lost bone and tissue, but this is often our last resort for treatment. We believe your natural equipment is best, so we will work tirelessly to restore your teeth and gums’ natural look and functionality.
Receive Personalized Care for Your Gum Health Today
At Enso Dental Arts, we understand that battling gum disease can feel overwhelming, but with our caring and comprehensive approach, it doesn’t have to be. Our focus is on providing treatments that are tailored to your unique needs, whether it be a deep cleaning, laser therapy, or more advanced options. Dr. Hiruma and her dedicated team, including periodontist Dr. Kevin Chen, are committed to ensuring your comfort every step of the way, using the latest technology to deliver the best outcomes possible.
Your gum health plays a crucial role in your overall well-being, and we are here to support you on your journey to a healthier smile. With our welcoming environment and patient-centered care, you can trust us to guide you through every stage of your treatment. Ready to take control of your gum health? Call us today at (516) 484-2676 or reach out through our contact form.