Periodontal Treatments
What is gum disease?
Gingivitis
Periodontitis
What are periodontal treatments?
Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing)
Antibiotic treatments
How can I know which gum treatment is best for me?
Gum disease is a common but highly preventable oral health problem. It occurs when a bacterial infection damages the tissues that support your teeth, resulting in persistent bad breath, gum recession, and tooth loss.
There are many types of gum disease, but Nashville Smile Creations focuses on two in particular:
Gingivitis is the mildest type of gum disease. It occurs when plaque, a mixture of food particles, saliva, and bacteria, build-up on your teeth, causing your gums to become irritated and swollen. Gingivitis doesn't always present obvious symptoms, but you might notice your gums bleed when flossing or brushing.
When gingivitis is left untreated, it progresses to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious infection that attacks your jaw and alveolar bones. As the infection gets worse, it often results in tooth loss. In addition, periodontitis increases your risk of health problems like heart and lung disease.
Nashville Smile Creations offers several types of non-surgical gum treatments, including:
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Deep Cleanings
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Antibiotic Treatments
Deep cleaning is a quick, non-surgical procedure to remove plaque and tartar from the exterior of your teeth and below your gum line. Most deep cleanings take a single appointment, but if you have a serious case of gum disease, two or more treatments may be necessary.
The Nashville Smile Creations team carefully removes plaque and tartar from your teeth during scaling and root planing. Your provider then smooths your tooth roots, allowing your gums to reattach to your teeth.
If deep cleaning isn't enough to eradicate your infection, the Nashville Smile Creations team might recommend antibiotic treatments.
Depending on your symptoms, your provider might prescribe a round of oral antibiotics, or they might implant tiny beads of antibiotic medicine beneath your gums. Over time, the beads release medication, limiting inflammation, bleeding, and other uncomfortable side effects.
The Nashville Smile Creations team will conduct an oral exam and take a series of oral X-rays. In addition, we will ask about your symptoms and discuss your lifestyle. After gathering and reviewing this information, the team develops a custom care plan that aligns with your needs.