Periodontal care is much more than just another cleaning. It is the less-glorified hero that keeps the tissues of your gums strong, makes sure the teeth stay stable, and the smile is preserved for decades to come. Routine cleanings only address visible plaque and tartar that can be removed. Periodontal treatment, however, focuses on the causes of gum disease and the damage that is happening unbeknownst to you, which can result in losing teeth and finding yourself facing serious health issues. Spending money on your gums is also an investment in your smile and future health.
Gum Disease is a Silent Killer of Smiles
Close to 50% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, but the early stages are generally painless. Bacteria collect below the gum line, creating a biofilm that causes inflammation of the tissues and the loss of bone that supports the teeth. The mildest form of the disease is called Gingivitis and is reversible with good brushing and flossing habits. However, without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe gum disease that results in loss of gum support, recession, and the formation of gum pockets, and can eventually lead to tooth loss.
The impact of periodontitis extends beyond oral health and impacts other aspects of one’s health. Oral pathogens that thrive in the mouth can be aspirated and increase the chances of developing heart disease, worsen diabetes, and result in preterm deliveries. Periodontics proactively stops the disease process, stabilizes the oral structure, and, in some instances, can help regain tissues that were lost.
Scaling and Root Planing: The Deep Clean
The cornerstone of successful periodontics is scaling and root planing. This involves the elimination of subgingival (below the gums) tartar and other debris through scaling, and the smoothing of root surfaces (planing) to allow the gums to reattach. The most recent advances in dentistry, such as ultrasonic instruments and laser therapy, provide high patient comfort, and the procedure is typically completed in 1 to 2 appointments per quadrant. A local anesthetic is used during the procedure, and regular maintenance appointments can be scheduled in the future to help maintain the results.
The results of the procedure include a reduction in the depth of the gum pockets by 2 to 4 millimeters, a 70% reduction in inflamed and bleeding tissues, and stabilization of the bone to support the natural teeth. Most studies of periodontal therapy show that 80% of treated individuals do not lose teeth, and many regain attachment to their gums.
Maintaining Your Overall Health
The appearance of your gums is not the only reason to keep them healthy. Healthy gums lower inflammation in the rest of the body and may allow you to avoid health issues down the road. Healthy gums, coupled with treatment for periodontal disease, have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, improve blood sugar control in diabetics, and help the elderly avoid pneumonia. Gum disease among expectant mothers increases the chances of preterm births. In addition to the medical benefits, patients often notice fresher breath, find it easier to chew, and feel more confident.
Periodontal Treatments for Advanced Problems
When periodontal disease is more advanced, there are advanced treatment options, including:
- LANAP Laser Therapy: A laser is used to target bacteria while promoting bone growth without cutting. This therapy reportedly has a 98% success rate.
- Gum Grafting: This provides a protective cover for those with exposed recession roots, restoring the aesthetics of the gum and protecting and preserving sensitive areas.
- Focused Antibiotics or Antiseptics: A gel can be applied to help control and manage the infection.
- Regenerative Treatment: This type of treatment uses membranes and grafts to fill in and restore lost bone.
Because you are developing bacteria below the gum line, you will need treatment at least every 3 months, as your normal brushing and flossing will not be enough to remove them.
Aesthetic and Confidence Restoration
With advanced gum recession, which exposes the tooth roots, sensitivity and smile failure increase. The smile can be restored through periodontal therapy, which improves gum tissue and firms the smile. The improved smile from teeth whitening, when combined with the therapy, yields the highest result. The therapy’s functional improvements allow patients to eat, laugh, and make dentures, thereby improving overall quality of life.
Long-Term Cost Saving
The $200-500 per-session periodontal therapy, though expensive, is less than dental implants and bridges, which are more than $5,000. Changes in the development of periodontal disease make early intervention more important, and many insurance plans often cover it to help with payment. Periodontal care prevents lost workdays and improves nutrition by keeping teeth.
The Common Myths
- “It hurts.” Modern technology has developed many tools and techniques to control pain with the use of anesthesia.
- “It’s just aging.” People of any age can be treated for periodontal disease.
- “Flossing alone is enough.” Daily reopening and closure of the teeth, and flossing, do not eliminate bacteria below the gum line.
Signs that you may need to take action include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and noticeable gum recession.
Your Perio Game Plan
- Examination and Probing: Early detection of pocket depths and inflammation.
- Therapy: as indicated, Scaling, root planing, and/or other advanced therapy.
- At-Home Care: Utilize a soft-bristle toothbrush, a water flosser, and rinse with an antiseptic.
- Regular Maintenance: To preserve your improvements, you will need to schedule maintenance appointments every three months.
Foundation Periodontal care cannot be postponed. Risking it jeopardizes your teeth and overall health. Investing in proper dental care protects your smile and your health.
Questions You May Have About Periodontal Therapy
What is periodontal treatment?
Periodontal treatment is the only therapy that protects and supports the structures that sustain your teeth and works through the gum line to manage and reverse gum disease.
How often should I get periodontal maintenance?
Because they are at risk and/or in treatment, these patients are required to come every three months. For patients with healthy gums, routine cleanings are sufficient.
Does periodontal therapy hurt?
Thanks to modern methods, local anesthesia, and laser use, the treatment is not painful, and discomfort post-treatment is minimal.
Does periodontal treatment reverse gum recession?
With the right treatment, some minor gum recession may improve. For advanced gum recession, tissue restoration may require surgical grafting or other regenerative interventions.
Will this treatment save my teeth?
Yes. Studies show that periodontal treatment prevents tooth loss in 80% of cases, and in some cases, can even regenerate tissue.
When it comes to investing in periodontal treatment, your focus shouldn’t be on the aesthetic benefits; it’s more about the long-term benefits to your overall health, your ability to eat and speak with confidence, and, of course, to preserve that smile. Impressive results come from the combination of advanced tissue management and preparation, along with a strategy to keep your results for many years to come.
