Everyone wants a nice smile! But a healthy mouth is even more desirable because it is a major health factor impacting everything from digestion and nutrition to confidence and systemic health. A major issue is gum disease. According to the CDC, about 47% of American Adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease (also called periodontal disease). And the prevalence of gum disease increases with age. In some advanced cases, gum surgery may be required.
What is Gum (Periodontal) Disease?
Gum disease refers to conditions that involve inflammation and infection of the gum and bone tissues that surround and support the teeth. The two most common types of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It is an inflammatory condition where the gums become red and swollen and may easily bleed. Gingivitis can be reversed, but if left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that leads to mild, moderate, or severe destruction of the tissues surrounding the teeth, including bone loss. It is a leading cause of tooth loss. If left untreated, other body conditions, such as diabetes, can become worse. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, but it can be slowed down and managed with professional treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding gums, gums that have moved away from the teeth, loose or sensitive teeth, painful chewing, and a change in the way teeth fit together when biting.
Risk Factors
Gum disease risk factors include smoking, diabetes, poor oral health, medication that has oral side effects, poor nutrition, obesity, hormonal changes, genetics, and stress.
Treatment
Treatment for gum disease might include, first, a non-surgical procedure known as “scaling and root planing” or “deep cleaning” of the affected tooth and root surfaces. Second, using prescribed medication or an oral rinse. Third, gum surgery.
What is Gum Surgery?
Gum surgery is a specialized dental procedure that utilizes techniques aimed at correcting and repairing damage caused by periodontal disease, thus restoring oral health.
One type is flap surgery, where the gums are lifted back so the dentist can access the roots of the teeth for cleaning or repair.
A second type is gum grafts, used to treat receding gums. In this procedure, healthy gum tissue is taken from another area of one’s mouth (or a donor source) and placed over exposed roots.
A third type is bone grafting, which may be necessary where severe bone loss has occurred.
Gum surgery can be a highly effective treatment option for individuals suffering from severe gum disease.
Can Dentists do Gum Surgery?
Yes, dentists can do gum surgery. While not as specialized as periodontists, general dentists can perform some minor gum surgery procedures, such as gum contouring or minor tissue grafting, among their other dental services. A great dentist can help you have a healthy mouth with regular checkups and cleanings.
Seek Professional Dental Care
Contact Old Mt. Pleasant Dentistry, located right off Ben Sawyer Blvd in Mt. Pleasant. S.C. for dental care you can trust. We use treatment plans that are practical, using the most advanced technology. We offer caring routine dental care and procedures, including extractions and root canals. To us, the patient is the most important person in the office.