Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and destroys the gums, ligaments and alveoli. Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease, and can generally be resolved with the use of a toothbrush, dental floss and regular dentist appointments; causes redness and swelling of the gums which can bleed easily. If gingivitis is left untreated it can cause periodontitis. This causes the gingival to retract, creating pockets that can easily become infected. Bacteria and the immune system begin to consume the bone and tissue that holds the teeth together, and consequently there is the risk of losing teeth and damaging the tissues.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Tooth Care
Step 1. Visit your dentist who will perform a deep cleaning of your teeth and gums
The plate is removed with root planing using a curette. This tool removes tartar above and below the gum line by scraping. Root planing removes bacteria from the tooth root and can be done with a laser.
Step 2. Brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush 2 or 3 times a day
This toothbrush provides a deeper cleaning thanks to the rotating head, in addition to the fact that it can also clean under the gums. Make sure you use a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Step 3. Floss at least once a day
Bacteria lurk in the teeth and if the plaque is not removed, it hardens and forms tartar, which only the dentist can remove. This tartar can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Step 4. Rinse with a mouthwash 2 or 3 times a day
This also helps reduce bacteria and consequently inflammation.
Method 2 of 3: Home Treatments
Step 1. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash
It is usually prescribed, and it fights the bacteria that cause gingivitis.
Step 2. Take antibiotics only when prescribed by your dentist
Taken by mouth, antibiotics can cure periodontal infection in no time. Make sure you complete the entire cycle.
Step 3. Use antiseptic chips or an antibiotic gel, which the dentist inserts into the pockets created by periodontitis, to reduce bacteria
Slow-release chips or gel medications help reduce pocket size and heal periodontal infection.
Method 3 of 3: More Advanced Treatments
Step 1. Surgery may be required for more severe cases
- Osteo-resective surgery can be done if no other treatment has worked so far. The dentist makes an incision in the gums, lifting them and cleaning the area to remove the underlying tartar, then they are repositioned on the tooth and sutured.
- During this surgery, bone and tissue grafts can be inserted to promote new growth of the bone or gums that have been damaged by the infection.
Step 2. Get checked by your dentist every 2 months until the periodontal infection stops and no longer shows any signs of disease
Afterwards you should be visited at least twice a year.
Advice
- Use a water jet for a deep cleaning between your teeth.
- Remember that you are the one who does most of the work, not the dentist; he only checks if your mouth is in good condition.
- Treating gingivitis early gives you a better chance of avoiding the most severe form of periodontal disease and reversing the course.
- Your doctor may recommend orthodontic procedures to correct crooked teeth, which can inhibit proper cleaning.
