Gum Disease Treatment in Lehi

Periodontitis (gum disease) is an infection that damages the gum tissue around the teeth. This is a common condition that has a serious effect on the bones and gums, if left untreated, this could lead to the loss of a tooth and bone.

The most common symptoms of gum disease can include swollen gums, red gums, sensitivity to hot or cold, and gums that easily bleed. Coming to regular checkups and cleanings is important to either detect the disease early or help maintain it.

There are many ways to diagnose gum disease, which can consist of the dentist doing an exam checking the depth of the pockets of the gums and checking the X-rays to detect the loss of bone.

There are many treatments available for gum disease. These include a deep cleaning underneath the gums called scaling and root planing, bone graft, flap surgery, gum graft, or antibiotics. The severity of each individual case will determine the treatment options.

Scaling and root planing is a procedure that goes deep below the gumline to clean out the buildup of plaque, tartar, and bacteria. This type of cleaning is used to treat gum disease.

Yes, gum disease (periodontitis) is linked to other health problems like respiratory disease, arthritis, low birthweight and preterm birth, and problems controlling blood sugar. Coming into regular checkups and cleanings can help maintain and reduce the risk of gum disease.

It is normal to feel some discomfort during or after treatment, but this should be temporary and reside within a couple of hours or a few days. This can be especially true for non-surgical procedures like the scaling and root planing cleaning, while for surgical procedures, this would typically vary depending on each patient’s aftercare and pain tolerance.

To prevent gum disease, you can make sure to practice good oral health habits. You can achieve this by brushing and flossing after every meal, or at least twice a day, quitting smoking, and attending your regular checkups and cleanings. Doing all of these things can help contribute to healthy, strong gums and teeth.

Untreated gum disease in severe cases, can increase the risk of diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and pregnancy complications. This can also lead to gum loss and bone loss, and you can even lose teeth. If you have untreated gum disease, please give our office a call as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.

The best lifestyle routine to help treat gum disease would be to make sure that you are brushing and flossing twice daily or after every meal to avoid the build-up of bacteria and tartar, quit smoking, and healthy habits which would include eating a healthy diet and getting the recommended amount of exercise per day. Having these recommended things in your daily routine can help prevent or maintain gum disease.