Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects many individuals, making early dental intervention crucial. While periodontitis can be effectively managed in its early stages, neglecting it may lead to the need for surgical procedures. At Hammond Pond Dental Group, our skilled dental professionals provide comprehensive explanations of the diagnosis, treatment options, and non-surgical therapies available for gum disease.
Gum Disease Diagnosis
To diagnose periodontal disease, our dentist will first review your medical history, including health conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors, to tailor an appropriate treatment plan.
A thorough visual examination of your mouth will be conducted to identify symptoms such as bleeding, swelling, and tenderness, and digital x-rays may be recommended to assess bone loss and pinpoint specific issues.
Additionally, the depth of gum pockets will be measured using a probe, with depths exceeding 4 mm indicating potential gum disease.
Following this assessment, the dentist will classify the stage and grade of the disease and discuss the most effective non-surgical treatment options available.
Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy in Chestnut Hill, MA
For those experiencing gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, early intervention through proper oral hygiene and regular cleanings can lead to reversal. At Hammond Pond Dental Group, we offer various non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease, including:
- Scaling and Root Planing, which involves cleaning deep gum pockets and removing hardened calculus from beneath the gum line, typically requiring two appointments under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
- Antibiotic Treatments, which will be prescribed by one of our experienced general dentists or periodontists. This treatment can consist of gels, medications, or rinses that help combat infection, which may need to be applied deep into the affected areas for optimal results.
Following simple tips to avoid developing gum disease include:
- Brushing and flossing your teeth every day
- Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco
- Schedule regular, routine dental exams and cleanings twice yearly, unless specified by a healthcare provider
