Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to tooth loss. This advanced stage of gum disease is a significant cause of tooth loss in adults but is largely preventable and treatable with proper care. Understanding the periodontitis treatment in Encinitas is crucial for anyone looking to protect their smile and maintain long-term oral health.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis begins as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. As the body fights this infection, the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place begins to break down. Without intervention, this can result in loose teeth or even tooth loss.
Symptoms of Periodontitis
Periodontitis may not cause pain in the early stages, so it’s essential to be aware of the symptoms. Swollen or puffy gums, which are red, swollen, or tender to the touch, are common indicators. Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing are another sign. Persistent bad breath, known as halitosis, that doesn’t go away after brushing may also signal the presence of periodontitis. Receding gums, where gums pull away from your teeth, making your teeth appear longer, is another symptom. Loose teeth, or teeth that feel loose or shift position, can occur as the disease progresses. In some cases, pus may form between your teeth and gums, indicating infection.
Periodontitis Treatment Options
Periodontitis treatment in Encinitas requires a comprehensive approach to stop the progression of the disease, eliminate infection, and restore the health of the gums and supporting structures. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the condition and may include both non-surgical and surgical options.
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This non-surgical treatment is often the first step in periodontitis treatment in Encinitas. During scaling, the dentist or periodontist removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line. Root planing involves smoothing the root surfaces to make it harder for bacteria to adhere and to allow the gums to reattach to the teeth. This procedure may require more than one visit, depending on the extent of the buildup. Scaling and root planing can help reduce the size of the pockets, eliminating the bacteria that cause infection.
Antibiotic therapy may be used in conjunction with scaling and root planing to control bacterial infection. These antibiotics can be administered orally or applied directly to the affected gum pockets in the form of gels or microspheres. The goal is to reduce the bacterial load and prevent the infection from spreading.
In more advanced cases of periodontitis, surgery may be necessary to reduce pocket depth and repair damaged tissue. Flap surgery, also known as pocket reduction surgery, involves lifting back the gums to remove tartar deposits. The gums are then sutured back in place, reducing the size of the pockets. Bone grafting may be performed if periodontitis has destroyed bone, using fragments of your bone, donated bone, or synthetic bone to regenerate the lost bone. Guided tissue regeneration is a technique that stimulates bone and gum tissue growth, involving the placement of a special membrane between the bone and gum tissue to prevent the gum from growing into the bone space, allowing the bone and connective tissue to regrow. Soft tissue grafts may be used to cover exposed tooth roots and reduce further gum recession, with tissue taken from the roof of the mouth or another donor source and attached to the affected site.
After treatment, maintaining periodontal health is crucial to prevent recurrence. This includes regular dental visits for more frequent cleanings and check-ups to monitor your periodontal health. Improved oral hygiene, such as brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash, is essential. Lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes, can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Conclusion
Periodontitis is a serious but treatable condition that requires a comprehensive approach to care. With early detection and proper periodontitis treatment in Vista, you can stop the progression of the disease, restore your oral health, and prevent tooth loss. If you’re experiencing symptoms of periodontitis, don’t delay in seeking professional dental care. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preserving your smile and overall well-being.
For expert periodontal disease care in Encinitas, consider Dr. William J. Cho, DDS, MS. Our team provides comprehensive services from preventive care to advanced periodontal treatments. Call us at (760) 720-7372 to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward optimal oral health.
