Periodontics For Common Gum Problems

At Smile Design Dentistry in Plymouth, MN, we recognize your gums’ crucial role in enhancing your smile’s aesthetic and overall dental health. Healthy gums are essential as they help stabilize your teeth and protect against harmful bacteria. If you’re experiencing issues such as sore or bleeding gums, a “gummy” smile, or tongue-tie, our skilled dental team is here to help.

We utilize advanced technology and sophisticated surgical techniques, and we are dedicated to restoring the health of your gums and improving your oral function. 

A healthy, confident smile can significantly enhance your quality of life. We encourage you to take the first step towards better oral health. Schedule your free consultation at Smile Design Dentistry. Your smile’s health is our top priority.

Types of Periodontal Diseases

At Smile Design Dentistry in Plymouth, MN, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of periodontal disease. Here’s a breakdown of the types we commonly address:

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease, typically marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing. It is often the result of inadequate oral hygiene but is reversible with professional treatment and consistent home care.

Chronic Periodontitis is the most common form of periodontal disease, primarily affecting adults, but can occur at any age. It progresses slowly and is characterized by inflammation of the supporting tissues of the teeth. If not treated promptly, chronic periodontitis leads to the gradual loss of bone and eventual tooth mobility or loss.

Aggressive Periodontitis: This form occurs in patients who are otherwise clinically healthy but experience rapid attachment loss and bone destruction. It may be familial and requires immediate intervention to prevent significant oral and systemic health complications.

Necrotizing Periodontal Disease: This is an acute infection characterized by the necrosis (death) of gum tissues, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. Factors such as severe malnutrition, HIV infection, and smoking are commonly associated with this form of periodontitis.

Periodontitis as a Manifestation of Systemic Diseases: Certain systemic conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes, are linked to periodontitis. It often occurs at a young age and can progress rapidly, making the management of the underlying systemic disease crucial alongside periodontal treatment.

At Smile Design Dentistry, we have the expertise and tools to manage and treat all stages of periodontal disease effectively. We emphasize the importance of regular visits and early detection, which are key to preventing disease progression and maintaining oral health. Schedule your appointment today to ensure your gums are healthy and your smile stays bright.

Diagnosis of Periodontal Diseases

Diagnosing periodontal diseases accurately is crucial for effective treatment and long-term oral health. Here’s how we diagnose periodontal diseases:

1. Dental Exams: A thorough dental examination is the first step in the diagnostic process. Our dental professionals visually inspect your gums for any signs of inflammation, bleeding, or gum recession. We also check for tooth mobility and the alignment of your teeth, as these can indicate underlying periodontal issues.

1. X-rays: Dental X-rays play a critical role in diagnosing periodontal disease. They allow us to see beneath the gum line and identify bone loss around the teeth. This imaging is essential for assessing the severity of the disease and planning effective treatments.

1. Periodontal Probing: This is a routine procedure in which a small dental instrument called a probe measures the depth of the pockets surrounding your teeth. Shallow pockets indicate healthy gums, while deeper pockets can indicate periodontitis. Accurate probing helps assess the progression of the disease.

1. Bacterial and Genetic Tests: These tests help us understand the specific bacteria causing the infection or determine if genetic factors contribute to the severity of the periodontal disease. Identifying the types of bacteria can guide in selecting the most effective treatment, including targeted antibiotics if necessary.

1. Genetic Tests: In some cases, genetic tests may be recommended to identify individuals at higher risk of developing periodontal diseases due to genetic predisposition. This information is valuable for preventive strategies and early interventions.

Targeted Periodontal Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatments

On our path to restoring your oral health, Smile Design offers a range of non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease. These treatments are designed to control infection and promote gum healing without surgery.

Dental Cleaning

Regular dental cleanings prevent periodontal disease by removing plaque and tartar that can build up on teeth. These cleanings also help catch and address gingivitis before it progresses to more severe periodontitis. We recommend professional cleanings at least twice a year, though more frequent cleanings may be necessary for patients with a history of periodontal issues.

Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance after gum disease treatment helps prevent re-infection and promote the long-term health of your gums, bones, and teeth. These deep cleanings every 3-5 months involve removing plaque and calculus accumulation from the teeth at and below the gumline. Visits also include an evaluation of gum health, including signs of inflammation or bleeding. 

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure that removes tartar and plaque from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces where disease-causing bacteria tend to accumulate. This treatment helps reduce the depth of the periodontal pockets and facilitates healthier reattachment of the gums to the tooth surfaces. It is often recommended when gums have begun to pull away from the teeth or the roots have tartar on them.

Antibiotics & other Medications

At Smile Design Dentistry in Plymouth, MN, we incorporate antibiotic treatments alongside other periodontal therapies to effectively manage the bacteria associated with periodontal disease. Depending on the severity and scope of the infection, we customize our approach for optimal results:

• Systemic Antibiotics are often prescribed to manage infections that have spread or are severe. These antibiotics circulate through the body and can help eliminate the bacteria causing periodontal disease.

• Local Antimicrobial Products are applied directly into the periodontal pockets. This targeted approach places the antimicrobial right where it’s most needed, helping to reduce bacteria in specific areas without affecting the rest of the body.

• Enzyme Suppressants can also be used as part of the treatment plan. These agents work by inhibiting the enzymes that break down gum tissue, protecting the gums from further damage.

• Pain Relievers may be recommended to manage any discomfort associated with treatment. These can make the process more comfortable, allowing for better tolerance of dental procedures.

These treatments can be used individually or in combination to tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs and promotes healing. At our clinic, we strive to provide the most effective and comfortable treatment options to ensure the health and longevity of your smile.

Trays with Medication

Custom-fit trays filled with medication can be an effective method for managing periodontal disease. These trays allow us to apply medication directly to the gums, which helps maintain and enhance the results of scaling and root planing. Using these trays helps control the growth of harmful bacteria and can be a convenient option for ongoing periodontal maintenance at home.