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Gum treatment is the treatment of active gum
and jaw bone disease. The treatment can slow or stop the progression
of the disease. Since there are different stages of gum disease (from
gingivitis to advanced periodontitis), there are different levels of treatment.
In some cases, the patient may be referred to a specialist.
Gum treatment consists of one or more of the following procedures, depending
on the individual case:
Scaling and Root Planing
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Scaling and Root Planing is a common non-surgical treatment for
periodontal disease. By using special instruments, we remove bacteria
and infection from the unhealthy deep pockets around the teeth below
the gum line. This is often referred to as a "deep cleaning". |
| First the tooth is scaled to remove the plaque and tarter
that has accumulated on the tooth. |
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Then the root is planed or smoothed. This eliminates any
rough areas on the root that can easily trap plaque and bacteria. |
A smooth clean root provides a healthy environment to allow the gums to
heal naturally and reattach to the tooth. This will create a reduced pocket,
therefore eliminating areas for bacteria to hide and cause further disease.
Scaling and Root Planing combined with a strict home care routine and
more frequent periodontal cleanings and exams will increase your chances
of keeping your natural smile.
Gum Surgery
Sometimes, in order to treat advanced gum disease, surgical procedures
are necessary, such as:
Advanced Medications
| Recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to now place medications
directly at the site of infection. One of the most commonly used medications
of this kind is Arestin™.
This is often used in conjunction with scaling and root planing. In
addition, an antimicrobial rinse is sometimes used after some procedures. |
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Oral Medications
| A new medication called Periostat®
has been developed specifically to combat periodontal infection by
bolstering your body's immune response to bacteria that cause periodontal
disease. Dr. Barnes
will evaluate your specific case to see if Periostat®
is right for you. |
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Strict Home Care Regimen
A home care routine specific to the patient's individual needs may be
prepared to prevent the patient from relapsing.
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