More than half of American adults are currently dealing with some form of gum disease, ranging from gingivitis to the more severe periodontitis. This oral health issue can have significant consequences. If you’re concerned about bleeding and inflamed gums, it’s crucial to consult your periodontist without delay. To secure a healthier smile in the long run, here are four important questions to discuss regarding gum disease.
Are Follow-Up Appointments Necessary?
To effectively address gum disease and facilitate the healing process, it is crucial to adhere to the recommended follow-up appointments suggested by your periodontist. These appointments play a vital role in preventing disease recurrence and promoting ongoing improvement and healing of your gums.
In cases of severe periodontitis, it’s common to schedule more frequent appointments compared to the typical six-month checkup. Instead, you may need to visit your dentist’s office every 3-4 months. By consistently attending these appointments, you take a proactive approach to reduce the risk of further infection, enabling your teeth and gums to flourish throughout the year.
What Kind of Technology Is Used to Treat Gum Disease?
Numerous dentists and periodontists still rely on conventional methods to eradicate harmful bacteria, and scaling and root planing is a common treatment to use. It aims to combat gum disease and promote optimal oral health.
During this procedure, a dental professional carefully removes plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gumline. The process involves scaling to remove the buildup, followed by root planing to smooth the tooth roots, making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere. The use of ultrasonic scalers and special hand instruments ensures a thorough and efficient cleaning process.
Do You Offer Sedation?
For patients who may feel anxious about undergoing gum disease treatment, it’s reassuring to inquire whether your periodontist provides sedation dentistry options. Whether it’s nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, these techniques can effectively alleviate anxiety. It can also be beneficial for patients undergoing complex or lengthy procedures, people with a sensitive gag reflex, and those who have trouble sitting still in the dental chair or reclining for long periods.
What Tooth Replacement Solutions Are Available if Gum Disease is Too Advanced?
While it might not always be essential to extract a tooth due to gum disease, in some cases, it becomes necessary. If you find yourself in this situation, your periodontist will discuss suitable tooth replacement options with you to determine the best solution for your needs.
Among the most common tooth replacement options are dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants, with the latter being the most favored choice. Dental implants, utilizing titanium posts that integrate with the jawbone, offer a long-lasting and stable solution for your smile, potentially lasting for several decades with permanent prosthetics.
Engaging in a conversation with your periodontist before beginning treatment will instill a sense of comfort and confidence as you embark on the journey towards a healthier smile. Understanding their proposed approach to enhancing your gums will provide reassurance and peace of mind about the future of your oral health.
About the Practice
United Dental Centers of Chicago takes pride in treating various forms of gum disease. They offer top-quality dental care for patients who are dealing with inflamed or bleeding gums. Whether through scaling and root planing or providing guidance for enhancing at-home oral care, their team prioritizes the safety and comfort of their patients in all treatments. To learn more about their gum disease treatment options or to schedule an appointment with United Dental Centers of Chicago, you can visit their website or call their office at (630) 576-9970.