Gum disease appears in several forms:
Common in older people but also found in younger adults, this gum disease is characterized by gum inflammation below the gum line, which causes tissue and tooth and jawbone loss.
This is the mildest type of gum disease. The teeth develop plaque, which cannot be removed with brushing and flossing, and has toxins that trigger gum disease.
This form of gum disease is severe, leading to the gums losing an attachment to the teeth, receding, revealing the tooth roots, and must be treated with procedures to reduce the damage and the threat of tooth loss.
The worst-case scenario is this form of rare gum disease. Necrosis means tissue death, so this type requires the most aggressive intervention.
Gum disease comes with various symptoms, most of which are uncomfortable and affect the aesthetics of the patient’s smile. The symptoms can include:
If you are experiencing any of the signs of gum disease, the earlier you are treated, the better it could be for your oral and overall health. Dr. Massaband takes a holistic approach to dentistry, understanding that the body systems work together and oral health cannot be separated from general health. The treatments for gum disease will reflect the severity of the problem and may include:
Specific antibiotics can assist in reducing the impact of gum disease. The antibiotics fight the bacteria, reducing inflammation and hindering the development of a protein that damages or destroys connective tissue.
Scaling removes plaque and tartar lodged below the gum line, and root planing smooths the tooth root's surface to help the gums reattach to the teeth more easily.
This treatment involves separating the gums from the teeth in the area to remove spaces where bacteria can flourish. The gum is then reattached to the teeth.
Periodontal laser treatments can treat the inflamed tissue around the tooth root.
Tissue regeneration can be stimulated by removing bacteria and placing grafting material to stimulate the growth of new jawbone and gum tissues.
This procedure creates a flap-like incision in the gums, allowing for the removal of the diseased gum tissue in a deep gum pocket (between teeth and gums).
Gum tissue grafting is an advanced treatment for gum disease. Depending on the patient's condition, connective tissue grafts may be used to resolve exposed tooth roots. Gingival grafts use tissue harvested from the roof of the mouth and then attached to the gum to resolve gaps and thin gum tissue. Pedicle grafts involve grafting tissue harvested from the gum near the tooth. This flap is called a “pedicle.” The flap is then pulled over the exposed root.
If gum disease has led to bone loss, bone grafting material can be put in place to keep the jaw healthy and increase the chances of avoiding tooth loss.
Gum disease must be treated as early as possible, as in the first stages, it can be reversed. However, if it has advanced, you deserve treatment with next-generation treatments. At ConfiDental in Beverly Hills, gum disease can be treated by one of the most talented dental professionals in the city and beyond. Dr. Liyan Massaband delivers the ultimate dental care and the best treatments worldwide. She brings exceptional skills in all aspects of modern dentistry and offers emergency same-day visits on weekends and after hours, with concierge, boutique service, and optimal personalized care. Contact us today to learn about how ConfiDental can help prevent and treat gum disease.
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