Contrary to the popular perception, periodontal diseases, and not oral cavities, are the root cause of adult tooth loss. These diseases, the result of infection in the gums, bones and ligaments. Periodontal diseases however can be cured successfully through periodontal and gum therapy. Even though pain-free, periodontal diseases may occur at any age and the development of these diseases varies from one individual to another.
Periodontium is the term used for the particular tissues that are around a tooth and support it. The periodontium helps in maintaining the tooth’s location on the mandibular or inferior maxillary bone and the mustache or maxillary bone. The 4 tissues that comprise the tissue are cementum, alveolar bone, periodontal ligament and gums or gingival. Periodontics is a dentistry subject which deals exclusively with the proper care and maintenance of periodontium.
Non-Surgical Periodontal and Gum Therapy
Also referred to as traditional periodontal therapy, this treatment is important for removing the oral plaque buildup and calculus. The stripping of the inflammation-producing etiologic agents controls bacterial development which induces gum conditions. If the gum disease is clinically diagnosed in the early phases, periodontal treatment, alone, may treat the problem. However if the disease reaches an advanced stage, one may need to go through certain other treatments before the therapy like replacing worn-out filling and crowns with overgrown margins. The margins can help in gathering the oral plaque.
There are 3 major types of Periodontal and Gum Therapy:
- Scaling and Root Planning (SRP)
Involves removal of oral plaque buildup, stain and calculus from the dental crown and underneath. Root planning consists of removing of abrasive cementum and surface dentin stuck in the calculus.
2. Antibiotics
An adjunctive cleansing replacement for the former, prescription medication in the capsule form may be taken to curb bacterial growth. A prescription antibiotic powder or even an anti-bacterial mouth wash may also be good at getting rid of germs.
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Laser in Periodontal and Gum Therapy
Laser treatments are steadily being used as a supplemental treatment SRP so as to boost the efficiency of the procedure. Lasers, used as an adjunct to the non-surgical periodontal and gum therapy, cause less swelling or bleeding; thus, making the therapy less distressing for the patient.
Gum Therapy
