From the number of television commercials that air every day, it would seem that gum disease is easily managed with over-the-counter remedies. While it’s true that home treatments can help keep the condition at bay by slowing its progression from gingivitis to periodontitis, when the disease progresses to an advanced level, many people are left searching for a stronger and more effective treatment protocol. If you’re one of those people, please keep reading to learn more about the options that a periodontist in Houston can provide.
The Preferred Choice: Non-Surgical Treatment
If the condition is caught early enough in its progression, a non-surgical treatment known as scaling and root planing can be performed to remove the plaque and tartar build-up from your teeth and root surfaces. Although this treatment may take more than one appointment to accomplish the desired results, it is the first-choice to let your gums heal and reattach themselves to achieve optimum oral health.
Other Treatments for Advanced Gum Disease
If scaling and root planing aren’t effective in treating the condition, the American Academy of Periodontology endorses surgical treatments such as a pocket reduction procedure, gum grafts, and regenerative procedures to correct the condition. The best way to determine which will be most effective in your individual case is to visit a periodontist in Houston, such as Perio Health Professionals for a treatment plan.
The Importance of Periodontal Maintenance
When choosing a periodontist, it’s important that you select a practice that has advanced technology and are leaders in periodontology to ensure your experience— whether surgical or non-surgical — will provide comfort and confidence for years to come. You’ll be provided with instructions and guidelines for at-home post-procedure care, but developing a relationship with a trusted caring team now can save years of worry later on. Some tips include investing in a good toothbrush and toothpaste, devoting at least six minutes every day to your oral health, using mouthwash as recommended, flossing at least once a day, and visiting your dentist in Houston for regular check-ups and professional cleaning to remove the tartar build up so it doesn’t advance to gum disease again.