The gum disease treatment Hayward Wisconsin also known as periodontal disease, focuses on managing infections and restoring the health of gums and teeth. This can involve a range of approaches, from non-surgical techniques such as scaling and root planing to more invasive surgical interventions for advanced cases. This procedure aims to eliminate plaque and tartar that have accumulated deep beneath the gum line, which cannot be accessed by a dental hygienist.
There are Four Stages of Gum Disease:
Gingivitis. The initial phase of gum disease is characterized by the presence of red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. At this point, there is no loss of bone structure, making gingivitis completely reversible with appropriate care and intervention.
Mild Periodontitis. As the condition progresses, bacteria infiltrate the area beneath the gums, impacting the supporting bone structure. This can lead to the gums receding from the teeth, resulting in the formation of pockets around them. These pockets become a refuge for plaque and bacteria, which are difficult to eliminate with standard oral hygiene practices.
Moderate Periodontitis. If left unaddressed, the bacteria can begin to damage the ligaments, soft tissues, and bone that secure the teeth. Symptoms may include persistent bad breath and the presence of pus, indicating infection near the gum line. In some cases, individuals may also experience discomfort during this stage of the disease.
Advanced Periodontitis. As periodontal disease progresses, it leads to ongoing bone loss, which may result in the loosening and eventual loss of teeth. Early intervention can make gum disease reversible; however, if significant bone loss has already occurred due to infection, the condition may be too advanced for reversal.
Types of Treatments
Dental Cleaning and Improved Oral Hygiene
Individuals experiencing the initial stages of periodontal disease, known as gingivitis, may find that they can reverse this condition through regular dental cleanings and enhanced oral hygiene practices. Since there is no bone loss at this stage, this conservative method effectively eliminates harmful bacteria in the mouth before the disease can advance.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a gum disease treatment Hayward Wisconsin akin to standard dental cleaning but focuses on a deeper level beneath the gums, targeting plaque and bacteria that are inaccessible to a toothbrush and dental floss. This treatment is often recommended by periodontists for individuals with mild gum disease.
In the course of this procedure, a dental hygienist first removes (scales) the plaque from the teeth and subsequently smooths (planes) the root surfaces to prevent bacteria from reattaching. Typically, this gum disease treatment Hayward Wisconsin is conducted over at least two appointments and is performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
Individuals suffering from moderate to severe gum disease may require pocket reduction surgery, also known as osseous surgery. The primary objective of this procedure is to eliminate plaque and tartar that have accumulated deep beneath the gum line, areas that are inaccessible to standard cleaning by a hygienist. During the gum disease treatment in Hayward Wisconsin, a periodontist will make an incision in the gums to create a flap, allowing for the temporary retraction of the gums from the roots of the teeth.
Following the creation of the flap, the periodontist will meticulously clean the teeth roots, removing any plaque, tartar, and bacteria, while also smoothing out any irregular surfaces. Once the cleaning process is completed, the gums will be repositioned, and the incision will be secured with stitches to promote healing.
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure)
In addition to traditional methods, some periodontists provide pocket reduction using the LANAP technique. This innovative procedure employs a handheld laser to specifically target diseased gum tissue, preserving the surrounding healthy tissue. While LANAP presents a less invasive option compared to conventional pocket reduction surgery, the outcomes can vary among patients.
