Are Gum Disease Treatments Considered Routine Dental Procedures

There are many routine dental procedures patients typically experience annually. The most common elements of dental checkups include X-rays and a cleaning. However, what happens if there is a problem with the gums? Even the most diligent patient may sometimes miss the early warning signs of gum disease. In this case, the dentist may perform further treatments that go beyond what is traditionally included in the scope of normal preventative care. Take a look at how dentists spot gum disease and some of the ways it is treated.

What is gum disease?

The gums are responsible for molding around teeth, covering the roots and ensuring that everything stays where it should. When bacteria penetrate the gums, it can compromise this tissue. Gingivitis is the common term dentists use to describe the precursor to gum disease. At this stage, the gums appear red and inflamed around the teeth. A dentist can usually help treat gingivitis through increased cleanings and office visits. Periodontitis is when the condition deteriorates. This is considered gum disease. Periodontal treatments with a practitioner who has a concentrated practice in this issue may be warranted.

What routine dental procedures treat gum disease?

Brushing, flossing and cleanings with a hygenist can help stop the progression of gingivitis to gum disease. However, in some instances, these routine procedures do not work and advanced treatment is necessary. People who go too long before getting treatment for gum disease may lose teeth if the tissue around them is compromised beyond repair. Some advanced treatments may be warranted depending on how the disease has developed.

Non-surgical treatment

Aside from usual tooth cleaning, dentists may step the cleanings up to help rid the gums of the bacteria infecting them. Scaling and planing is a method used to perform a much deeper cleaning of the mouth, with a concentration on the gum line and below it. The dental professional focuses on removing thicker layers of tartar and plaque from around and under the gum line. The dentist or hygenist may also then take the time to smooth out areas of the teeth that are pitted or uneven, either from bacterial intrusion or plaque and tartar build-up. This helps to discourage future bacterial growth in the grooves of these teeth.

Surgical intervention

Some cases of gum disease may require a more aggressive approach. Surgery is one option that some patients may consider, especially if the gums are in bad shape. According to WebMD, there are five common surgical procedures that can help restore the gums and fend off tooth loss:

  1. Bone graft
  2. Pocket/flap reduction
  3. Tissue regeneration
  4. Bone surgery
  5. Tissue grafts
  6. All of these procedures generally include thorough cleanings under the gum lines and, in some cases, a transplanting of bone from one area to another.

    Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Routine Dental Procedures in Alexandria, VA.

    Conclusion

    Keeping gums healthy is a top priority of routine dental procedures. Dentists want to help patients ensure that the mouth is healthy enough to sustain the teeth for many years ahead.

    Request an appointment or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at 703-763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.

    Related Posts

    The Root Canal Process From A To Z

    Dentists employ a root canal to save a badly damaged or infected tooth. When decay, injury, or infection affects the soft tissue inside a tooth, known as the pulp, a root canal is often the best way to fix it. This treatment relieves pain and protects the tooth from further damage. Knowing what to expect…

    3 Questions To Ask Your Dentist About Dental Restorations

    There are many options available for dental restorations, and it is important to be informed about the procedures and treatment plans involved before committing to one. Typically, a patient will have a consultation with a dental professional prior to having any work done. This type of appointment is an ideal time to ask questions and…

    How Dentists Use Dental Crowns In Dental Restorations

    Crowns are commonly used in dental restorations. A crown is a cap shaped like a tooth but hollow in the middle. It fits over a natural tooth that has to be prepared first. Depending on the issue it is correcting, a crown can be used by itself or as a component of another restoration technique.Teeth…

Alexandria Old Town Dental

Share
Published by
Alexandria Old Town Dental

Recent Posts

The Root Canal Process from A to Z

Dentists employ a root canal to save a badly damaged or infected tooth.

14 hours ago

3 Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Dental Restorations

There are many options available for dental restorations, and it is important to be informed…

24 hours ago

How Dentists Use Dental Crowns in Dental Restorations

Crowns are commonly used in dental restorations. A crown is a cap shaped like a…

3 days ago

Restore Your Smile With Dental Restorations

Numerous things can interfere with a good smile. Whether it is a missing, cracked, chipped,…

1 week ago

How Common are Dental Restorations?

Dental restorations include several fairly routine dental procedures and are therefore very common. Here is…

1 week ago

The Lifespan of Composite Fillings and How to Care For Them

Composite fillings are a common restorative material used to repair damaged teeth and restore their…

2 weeks ago