Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the gum surrounding a tooth. Periodontal disease can cause lasting damage, including tooth loss, so managing the disease is vital to the health of your teeth and gums. Many people often feel intimidated when they learn they have periodontal disease because surgery is sometimes necessary, but that is not always the case. There are several non-surgical periodontal treatments in Rochester that can repair the damage to your gums, heal the infection, and restore your smile.
Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatments in Rochester
Non-surgical methods of treating periodontal disease have been shown to be effective in restoring the health of your gums and teeth.[1] There are a few things you can do at home to maintain your health and a few non-surgical procedures your periodontist can perform to restore your health. Let’s review some of the best methods of treating periodontal disease without surgery.
1. Control Systemic Risk Factors
There are several risk factors that are associated with an increased risk of periodontal disease. These risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Certain Medications
- Obesity
- Nutrition
Each of the above factors has been proven to increase the risk of infection and can even delay healing if left uncontrolled. Thankfully, some of the factors are manageable by dietary and lifestyle changes. For example, people who smoke are 2-4 times more likely to develop periodontitis.[2] Additionally, increasing the amount of fiber you consume may reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which can reduce the risk for periodontal disease. Additionally, people who have a normal BMI, get regular exercise, and eat a healthy diet are 40% less likely to develop periodontal disease. [3]
2. Healthy Home Habits
Proper brushing and flossing twice a day are imperative in preventing or treating periodontal disease. While this seems obvious, because we learned as much since childhood, it is worth repeating. Improving home oral care habits can reverse the early stages of gum disease so that surgery is not necessary. Take it a step further, and also begin cleaning your tongue and using a mouth rinse daily, to maximize your oral care routine.
3. Laser Technology
Using a narrow beam of light energy, we can kill all the disease-causing bacteria that we find in periodontal pockets. This is a minimally invasive way to quickly kill bacteria without surgery. Laser procedures are typically very quick and do not require sutures. The wavelength produced by lasers is attracted to the gum tissue. When the laser light is absorbed by the tissue, it is quickly heated up to 100 degrees celsius, which causes bacteria to vaporize. Additionally, the laser allows a blood clot to form that triggers the healing process. [4]
4. Periodontal Evaluations
After receiving treatment for periodontal disease, regular check-ups are imperative. During these check-ups, your periodontist will evaluate the health of your gums to ensure everything is healing properly and infection has not returned. It is much quicker and easier to treat gum disease in its early stages, rather than letting it get out of control. Additionally, your periodontist will work with you to ensure your home habits are up to par and can recommend any adjustments you should consider making.
Schedule an Appointment for Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatments in Rochester
Treating and preventing periodontitis doesn’t have to require surgery. At Dental Implants and Periodontal Health of Rochester, we can help you. If you have questions about how to treat periodontitis without surgery, contact us today at 585.685.2005.
Sources:
[1] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-0765.1986.tb01482.x
[2] https://decisionsindentistry.com/article/nonsurgical-treatment-chronic-periodontitis/
[3] https://decisionsindentistry.com/article/nonsurgical-treatment-chronic-periodontitis/
[4] https://www.aegisdentalnetwork.com/cced/2012/05/laser-technology-its-role-in-treating-and-managing-periodontal-disease