Periodontal disease affects millions of Americans every single day. Most of the time, the effects of gum disease go completely unnoticed until they cannot be ignored any longer. The symptoms include:
- Bleeding gums
- Excess plaque and tartar
- Periodontal pockets
- Bone recession
- Persistent bad breath
If left untreated, the bad bacteria can move from the mouth, into the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body.
As dental professionals, our goal is to help patients avoid these consequences completely. That’s why we recommend regular dental cleanings every six months and teach good oral hygiene practices.
However, when patients do develop gum disease, our dentist offers the following effective and state-of-the-art periodontal treatments.
Root planing and scaling
Our Austin laser dentist prioritizes conservative, non-surgical periodontal treatments. Root planing and scaling, also called a deep dental cleaning, is just that. First, she cleans the surfaces of each tooth and the gum line. Then, using gentle techniques and effective tools, she removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line—this is the “scaling” part. Finally, she smooths out any rough spots on the tooth (planing).
This process causes the periodontal pockets to shrink and heal. Patients can then maintain good gum health through proper oral hygiene habits at home, such as brushing and flossing.
Laser pocket decontamination
For deeper periodontal pockets and more advanced forms of gum disease, laser pocket decontamination may be necessary. In the past, more invasive procedures would be necessary, but dental lasers have made treatments much simpler and safer.
During this procedure, our dentist utilizes a precise dental laser that emits a focused beam into the periodontal pockets. Through this practice, the disease-causing bacteria are eliminated, and the laser creates an environment that aids in healing. Many studies have shown that laser therapy increases the chance of recover from gum disease.
Gum grafts
Most patients with periodontal disease experience gum recession as a result of deep periodontal pockets. Once the disease has been neutralized, dentists focus on treating the damage. Gum grafts solve the issue of gum recession by using tissue from a bank or patient’s mouth.
First, the tissue (if using from the patient’s mouth) is removed with a dental laser. Then, the grafts are carefully and attached to the remaining gum tissue.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
Teeth and gums that have been damaged by periodontal disease become extremely susceptible to falling out. Guided tissue regeneration involves surgery on the gum and bone, separating tissues, and healing. In about six months, the teeth should have much more support.
Bone Grafting
Periodontal disease also attacks the jawbone, leading to bone resorption that causes the face to appear caved in. Through modern technology, dentists can regrow the bone, restoring function and appearance. Once healed, the dentist will likely replace any missing teeth with dental implants to ensure the jawbone remains strong.
Modern Periodontal Treatment in Austin, TX
When it comes to dentistry, conservative and gentle techniques are preferred. At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale is passionate about creating a comfortable dental experience for patients with all types of oral health needs. Laser dental treatments are her specialty for that reason!
If you or someone you love is suffering from periodontal disease, don’t wait any longer to receive treatment. The earlier, the better! Dr. Ragsdale is prepared to help eliminate the disease and restore your mouth to health. Contact our office today at (512) 346-4690 to schedule an initial consultation.
