Comprehensive Periodontal Treatment in Thibodaux, LA: From Deep Cleanings to Surgery

A healthy periodontium is the foundation of a beautiful smile. Gum diseases (periodontitis) destroy this foundation, resulting in loose teeth and jaw bone loss.

The most common cause of periodontitis is bacteria in dental plaque. This bacteria releases toxins that irritate gum tissue and the underlying bone. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontitis.

Deep Teeth Cleanings

Often when we see patients with bleeding and puffy gums, which are the first signs of gingivitis, a deep teeth cleaning is recommended with periodontal treatment Thibodaux LA. This is done by a dental hygienist and is more intensive than the typical routine cleaning. During the procedure, we use a special scaling technique to reach below the gum line and remove bacteria and tartar that has built up. We also use root planning to smooth rough areas on the tooth root to make it harder for bacteria to attach.

While this procedure can be uncomfortable, it’s important to remember that the underlying foundation for your teeth is just as critical as the structure of a house. A healthy periodontium keeps your teeth in place, and a deep cleaning can reverse the early symptoms of gum disease before they progress to more serious problems. When gum disease advances, the results can be devastating. Symptoms include bad breath, loose teeth and red and puffy gums that easily bleed.

Periodontal Scaling & Root Planning

Periodontal scaling and root planning (SRP) is a nonsurgical treatment that thoroughly cleans the tooth and gum line to help you regain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. The procedure removes the etiologic agents that cause gum disease, such as dental plaque and tartar. It also helps to stop and possibly reverse the progression of periodontitis.

First, your dentist will numb the affected area of your mouth with a topical or local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Then he or she will use special dental instruments to remove the bacteria, plaque, and calculus from above and below the gum line. He or she will also “plan” the exposed surfaces of the roots, which smoothes them to prevent bacterial deposits from accumulating in the future.

After the cleaning with periodontal treatment Thibodaux LA, it is very important that you return every 90 days for a routine appointment. This allows your dentist to re-probe the gum pockets, measure healing and provide you with advice on how to maintain your improved gum health.

Gum Disease Treatment

If the gum disease is in its earliest stage (gingivitis), it can be reversed by brushing and flossing regularly, using mouthwash to reduce plaque, and getting regular dental cleanings.

If left untreated, gingivitis advances to periodontitis. At this point, bacteria begin to seep beneath your gums and eat away at the ligaments, soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. You may notice pockets forming around your teeth, as well as loose or painful teeth and bad breath.

Early periodontitis is often reversible with frequent dental cleanings, better oral hygiene and medication to control your immune system if you have a weakened immune system. Certain conditions like lupus, scleroderma and Crohn’s disease can also increase your risk of gum disease. If the disease has advanced, you may need a more intensive treatment, such as scaling and root planning or surgery. This may be accompanied by antibiotics to treat any infections. You’ll also be advised on how to continue good oral health at home.

Periodontal Surgery

Periodontal treatment Thibodaux LA is a more invasive approach to treat and repair problems affecting the gums and bone. Your dentist will recommend more conservative treatment options before suggesting this type of dental work, but in some cases, periodontal surgery is required.

This type of dentistry includes a wide range of procedures that are aimed at restoring and repairing the bone and tissue damaged by advanced periodontitis. Generally, it is recommended when less invasive methods like more frequent and deep cleanings aren’t sufficient to control the spread of gum disease and reduce pocket depth.

During this procedure, your doctor will numb the affected area and possibly administer sedation. Then, he’ll open the gum tissue and remove any infected material that’s holding back healthy tissue. He’ll then reposition the gum tissue and use sutures to close it. This process typically takes an hour, though it will depend on how many gum grafts are required. During this time, you’ll experience some discomfort and pain, but it shouldn’t be too severe.