According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems in the nation. It’s estimated that one out of every two adults suffers from the earliest form of the issue, called gingivitis, or the more advanced form, known as periodontitis. Countless studies over the last two to three decades have also shown that when left untreated, this condition can have a drastic impact on your physical health as well. If we spot any symptoms of this common issue during your semi-annual checkup, like gum inflammation or recession, we’ll work quickly to develop a plan to keep it from getting any worse with gum disease treatment in our South Portland, ME dental office.
Scaling and root planing is a two-step process that we complete for patients who are suffering from signs of gum disease. We’ll begin by clearing all plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, as far down as the pockets of the gums. This will help reduce the prevalence of infection-causing bacteria in your mouth and give it a chance to heal. Finally, we’ll smooth out the surface of your roots, which will allow your gums to healthily reattach and protect these vulnerable areas from becoming infected.
Typically, we suggest antibiotic therapy in combination with scaling and root planing to reverse the symptoms of gum disease and help you find relief. The antibiotics typically come in the form of a pill or medicated mouthwash to target infected gums. They will help kill harmful, inflammation-causing bacteria, preserve your healthy gum tissue, and prevent additional damage from the disease, such as permanent tooth loss.
At Mind Your Mouth, we can effectively address gum disease with PerioProtect treatment. It consists of using custom-made Perio Trays that deliver gum disease medication below your gumline. All you have to do is put the medication in your trays and wear them for a few minutes a day in between office visits – that’s it! Not only is this modern approach convenient, but it greatly minimizes the need for surgery and antibiotics.
