Gum Disease Prevention, Detection and Treatment
If you are like many people that know they are at risk for periodontal disease, you can have comfort in knowing that there are advanced technologies to identify your risk, simple ways to prevent it and improved techniques for treatment. One thing is for certain. A multi-prong approach focusing on detection, prevention and treatment offers the best opportunity for you to prevent the condition from progressing over time. Check out the details!
Detection
- Micro-IDent® Plus Technology: This technology allows for simple early detection of bacteria that may cause periodontal disease. It’s a pain free treatment that is offered by a select number of dentists and can be performed during your dental check up.
- GenoType PST™ Plus Testing: This diagnostic tool can detect if you are at risk for periodontal disease and helps to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This technology is often available at dental practices that focus on periodontal disease.
Prevention
- Plaque Removal: Plaque can be removed at home by having the perfect oral health day. Plaque must also be removed at a higher level at least twice a year through professional general dentistry cleanings twice a year or more often, when necessary.
- Biofilm Removal: Most everyone has some degree of biofilms which consists of layers of bacteria pathogens, fungi and toxins in the mouth. When biofilms penetrate pockets between gum tissue and the teeth, periodontal (gum disease) occurs. A select number of dentists offer Perio Protect in which a mouth tray containing oxygenating agents can be used to kill bacteria in the mouth. If you are interested in a home approach, Carie Free offers a variety of gel toothpastes, mouth rinses and gums that combine fluoride, xylitol and pH neutralizing agents to prevent and treat dental infections.
- Metabolic and Hormonal Balance: Pregnancy, puberty and menopause may alter the organic balance of the oral cavity which can contribute to periodontal disease. See your physician to learn how you can maintain a steady metabolic and hormonal balance.
- Medical Condition Management: Certain medical conditions can affect metabolic balance and nutrients in the oral cavity so it’s important to see your dentist regularly if you are being treated for a medical condition. Certain medications that are used to treat medical conditions may adversely affect the gums such as overgrown gums (common in kidney patients) and dry mouth syndrome (a side effect associated with many medications).
- Dry Mouth Syndrome Prevention: If you feel you have dry mouth syndrome , work on creating saliva flow. Poor saliva flow prevents natural fluid from cleansing the teeth. In fact, saliva contains an enzyme that fights off bacteria in your mouth.
- Oral Condition Management: If you are a tooth grinder or clencher, obtain a mouth guard because grinding and clenching pose a risk for periodontal disease. Tend to tooth decay immediately. Do not postpone dental fillings, root canals or other tooth restoration procedures. Managing oral conditions will reduce your risk of periodontal disease.
Treatment
- Root Planing and Scaling: If your gums are not properly adhered to your teeth or your roots have tartar, root planing and scaling is usually performed to deep clean between the gums and teeth, down to the root. Your dentist may also fill your gum pockets with antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Laser Treatment: Some dentists perform laser treatment to seal the exposed pockets between the gums and teeth. This is usually performed following root planing and scaling.
If you have more advanced periodontal disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist. Yet, the first step is your primary dentist. So, go for it! Gum disease detection, prevention and treatment do not have to be uncomfortable or problematic. Instead, you can move on to rewards with a healthy mouth that is fresh and clean!
If you think you have signs of periodontal disease, contact Austin Dental Spa.