Advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, can seem scary when diagnosed. However, the disease can be managed and stabilized with proper treatment. Although complete reversal becomes more challenging at later stages, effective treatment is possible! While the damage to supporting structures and bone loss that occur in advanced cases cannot be fully restored to their original state, with appropriate interventions, the disease progression can be halted, symptoms can be improved, and oral health can be significantly enhanced. This allows you to maintain your natural teeth and smile longer!
At Seattle Dental Studio, Dr. Dbouk provides comprehensive treatment options for patients with advanced gum disease. Using state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based approaches, Dr. Dbouk creates personalized treatment plans to address your specific periodontal condition and restore your oral health.
Common Treatment Options for Advanced Gum Disease
While complete reversal of advanced gum disease isn’t possible, effective treatments can significantly improve your condition and prevent further damage from affecting your smile. Treatment focuses on controlling infection, eliminating bacteria, and creating an environment conducive to healing.
The specific approach that our dentist will choose to treat your smile depends on the severity of your condition, overall health, and response to previous treatments. Dr. Dbouk will evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan that will best fit your oral health needs. Some common treatment options for advanced gum disease include the following.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For many patients, non-surgical treatments effectively manage advanced gum disease. These treatments aim to remove bacteria and create conditions for healing without invasive procedures. One example of a non-surgical treatment approach is scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth. The treatment may be performed over multiple visits, focusing on different areas of the mouth.
After scaling and root planing, Dr. Dbouk may prescribe antimicrobial treatments to control bacterial growth and reduce inflammation. These may include oral antibiotics, antimicrobial mouth rinses, or locally applied antibiotics placed directly into the periodontal pockets.
Surgical Interventions
When non-surgical treatments aren’t sufficient, surgical interventions may be necessary to address your advanced gum disease. These procedures aim to accomplish the following:
- Reduce pocket depth
- Regenerate lost bone and tissue
- Improve overall gum health
One form of surgical intervention is flap surgery. This procedure involves lifting back the gums to remove tartar deposits from deep pockets and securing the tissue back in place, allowing for better cleaning and maintenance.
Another form of surgical intervention is bone grafting, which uses natural or synthetic bone to replace lost bone, stimulating new bone growth and preventing tooth loss. Dr. Dbouk may also recommend guided tissue regeneration, which involves placing a small piece of mesh-like material between the bone and gum tissue. This prevents unwanted tissue from entering the healing area, allowing the bone to regrow and better support the teeth.
What Are Signs and Symptoms of Advanced Gum Disease?
Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell if you have gum disease. However, when it reaches a more advanced stage, there are certain symptoms you should be looking out for.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be dealing with advanced gum disease:
- Persistently red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Receding gums (teeth appear longer)
- Deep pockets forming between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Persistent bad breath or taste
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when biting
- Pus between teeth and gums
Recognizing these warning signs early allows for more effective treatment. Regular dental check-ups enable Dr. Dbouk to detect and address periodontal disease before it progresses to advanced stages. This allows him to help keep your smile healthy and your overall oral health in good condition!
Contact Seattle Dental Studio for Advanced Gum Disease Treatment Today
At Seattle Dental Studio, Dr. Dbouk brings extensive training and experience in treating advanced gum disease. Using cutting-edge diagnostic tools and treatment methods, Dr. Dbouk provides exceptional care tailored to your specific needs. With a gentle approach and commitment to patient comfort, Dr. Dbouk helps patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health despite challenging conditions.
Don’t let advanced gum disease compromise your oral health and overall well-being. Take the first step toward healthier gums and a more confident smile today. Call Seattle Dental Studio at (206) 467-8302 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation.
