Blog

Treatment options for gum disease from our dentist Navan

Gum disease is a common oral health problem that affects millions of people every year. It can cause tooth loss, bad breath and other health problems if left untreated. Let's discuss the different treatment options available for gum disease at our dentist Navan and how to get the most out of your treatment plan.

What is gum disease, and what are the symptoms?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem. It is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss if not treated. The symptoms of gum disease include gums that are swollen and bleed easily, receding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth. Treatment for gum disease depends on the severity of the problem. If caught early, mild gum disease can often be treated with a thorough cleaning (root planing) and daily brushing and flossing. More advanced cases may require surgery or antibiotics.

What are the different treatment options available for gum disease at our clinic?

There are a few different treatment options available for gum disease at our dentist Navan. Periodontitis does not occur overnight and takes a long time to establish itself and be treated. Treatment schedules will be different for each case. The first step in treatment is to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth; this can be done through a professional cleaning performed by our hygienist.

Next, we will work on reducing the inflammation in your gums. Consistency is the most essential tool; this is where charting pocket depth and monitoring changes over time comes in, which will help our team at dentist Navan determine whether the plan is working and make necessary adjustments along the way.

Some other options for treatment include:

-Antibiotics: these can be taken orally or applied directly to the gums; they work by killing the bacteria that is causing the infection.

-Scaling and root planing: this is a deeper cleaning that is performed under local anaesthesia. It involves removing the tartar and bacteria from below the gum line.

-Surgery: in some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the infection; this can involve flap surgery, bone grafts, or tissue regeneration.

The long-term effects of untreated gum disease

The long-term effects of untreated gum disease can be quite serious. The infection can spread to other parts of the body, including the heart, liver, and lungs. In severe cases, it can even be fatal. Untreated gum disease can also lead to tooth loss. Therefore, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible if you think you may have gum disease.

Gum disease prevention

Gum disease can be prevented at home by following some simple tips:

-Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

-Floss daily

-See our team for a professional cleaning at least twice a year

-Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco

-Avoid sugary foods and drinks

If you suspect that you are suffering from gum disease, please contact our team at Navan Dental for an appointment to assess your treatment options.