How Is Gum Disease Treated?

In the following video, Brent Bradford, DDS, explains the different types of periodontal disease and the methods we use to effectively treat them.

Gum disease can be categorized into two main types: periodontal disease and gingivitis. Periodontal disease is the more severe form, where the bone is affected by the bacteria. Gingivitis, on the other hand, is milder and often considered a precursor to periodontal disease. As it progresses along the continuum, gingivitis can lead to the more severe condition if left untreated.

Treating gingivitis involves a thorough cleaning to remove bacteria and calculus (tartar) from the surface of your teeth. This can usually be managed with regular dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene at home. Periodontal disease requires a more intensive approach to remove bacteria from the root surfaces beneath the gum line.

Dental hygienists use specially designed instruments that can reach into the crevices and concavities of the root surfaces where regular flossing may miss. Roots are not smooth, perfectly shaped cones; they have dips and grooves where bacteria can hide.

That’s why professional cleanings are essential to managing gum disease effectively. If you suspect you have signs of gum disease, it’s important to get a professional evaluation to determine the right course of treatment.