Many times, the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy. This usually consists of placing a fine ultrasonic cleaning tip in between the tooth and gum tissue to remove any plaque and calculus below the gum line. This procedure is performed during root planing. In less advanced cases, shrinking these infected gum pockets can eliminate diseased sites.
Then the patient can personally maintain these areas with routine brushing and flossing. Some causes of gum disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking, teeth grinding, certain medications, pregnancy, and genetics. Early intervention is necessary to reverse gum disease for both gum health and overall health.
- Spot the Signs of Gum Infection
- Gingivitis and Periodontitis: What is the difference?
- What Are the Types of Periodontitis?
- Warning Signs of Periodontitis
- What Causes Periodontitis?
- How to Keep Gingivitis from Turning into Periodontitis
- How is gum disease treated?
- Modular Periodontal Therapy
- Am I a Good Candidate for Modular Periodontal Therapy?
- Modular Periodontal Therapy Initial Consultation
- Treating Periodontitis with Modular Periodontal Therapy
- Supportive Periodontal Therapy
- Treatment for Advanced Periodontitis
- Modular Periodontal Therapy Potential Risks
- Recovery from Modular Periodontal Therapy
- Stop Periodontal Disease Early
- Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Surgical Treatments
Spot the Signs of Gum Infection
Ask yourself the following:
- Do you have bleeding gums?
- Do you have deep gum pockets?
- Do you have bad breath?
- Are you experiencing any pain when chewing?
- Have past gum treatments not worked well?
Answering yes to any of these questions may mean you are suffering from a gum infection. Without proper treatment, gum disease can affect your dental health and the health of your entire body, and it can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The only way to determine if you are dealing with periodontitis is to see a specialized periodontist.
In our practice, even in the most severe cases of periodontal disease, non-surgical periodontal therapy most often precedes surgical therapy. This is done so that the overall tissue quality is improved prior to surgery, and it also limits the areas of required surgery.
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Contact our Miami office today!
Gingivitis and Periodontitis: What is the difference?
Many people use the terms “gingivitis” and “periodontitis” interchangeably. However, they are not the same. Both fall into the spectrum of periodontal disease, yet gingivitis and periodontitis refer to different stages of progression. Each will require specific treatments to prevent further development.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease. It refers to an inflammation of the gums due to excess plaque on the teeth. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums that easily bleed when brushing or flossing. These symptoms can often go unnoticed or are easily ignored. However, early treatment is key to preventing further problems. Good oral hygiene at home, routine dental examinations, and preventative care can help prevent gingivitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis refers to a more serious progression of gum disease. In this advanced stage, the gum tissue may pull away from the teeth, creating deep pockets where bacteria can build and lead to infection. Eventually, periodontitis can cause red, swollen gums, pain while eating, poor tooth alignment, mouth sores, and ultimately the loss of teeth. Periodontitis is a common condition. One study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found that 50% of all adults over the age of 30 are suffering from advanced-stage gum disease.
What Are the Types of Periodontitis?
You should know about three primary types of periodontitis. These include:
Aggressive periodontitis
Aggressive periodontitis usually starts during early adulthood or childhood. It is relatively uncommon but can cause rapid tooth and bone loss if left untreated.
Chronic periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis is the most common type of periodontitis, and older adults are more likely to be affected than children and young adults. It occurs as a result of plaque accumulation that causes a slow deterioration of the gums and tooth structures. If left untreated, it can result in bone and tooth loss along with gum destruction.
Necrotizing periodontal disease
This form of periodontal disease can cause reduced blood supply which affects tooth ligaments, gum tissue, and supporting bones. It ultimately results in a significant infection. People with cancer, HIV, and other conditions that suppress the immune system are at the highest risk. Malnutrition is also a possible cause.
Is Gum Recession Reversable?
Warning Signs of Periodontitis
You may start to lose some of your teeth
Below are the most common symptoms for gum disease. If you notice any of these signs, visit Dr. Gallardo right away. He can treat periodontal disease at its earliest stages.
Bad Breath
When gingivitis has progressed to peritonitis, you may develop persistent bad breath, no matter how often you brush. This is due to the presence of bacteria in the mouth.
Pain
As bacteria settles into the gums, teeth can become sensitive, causing pain when chewing or biting.
Tooth trouble
Gingivitis causes irritated, red gums. However, periodontitis can result in teeth shifting, causing your bite to change, fillings to fall out, or dental bridges to fit differently. The teeth may also become loose.
Some of the following symptoms may also occur:
- Puffy or swollen gums
- Gums that are tender to the touch
- Receding gums that start to pull away from the teeth
- Dusky red, bright red, or purplish gums
- Easy bleeding from your gums
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- Teeth fitting together differently
In the most advanced stages, you may start to lose some of your teeth. It is also possible for the bacteria that cause gum disease to get into your bloodstream. From there, it can affect other areas of your body, including your heart.
What Causes Periodontitis?
Gum irritation that leads to periodontitis typically starts when plaque begins to build up. This sticky substance occurs as the result of an interaction between normal oral bacteria and the sugars and starches in the foods you eat. If you do not brush your teeth regularly, this plaque will continue to accumulate and can develop into tartar.
Tartar is a hardened substance that can build up below your gum line. Compared to plaque, tartar is much harder to remove and can require the help of a dentist. As plaque and tartar remain in place, they can cause gingivitis to develop, which is the mildest type of periodontal disease.
As the gums become chronically inflamed, pockets can develop between your teeth and gums. These are filled with tartar, bacteria, and plaque. Without treatment, the pockets can grow deeper and increase your risk of infection and tooth loss.
Certain factors increase your risk of periodontitis, including:
- Gingivitis
- Chewing or smoking tobacco
- Menopause, pregnancy, and other hormonal changes
- Obesity
- Genetics
- Conditions that can reduce your immunity, such as cancer treatments
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Aging
- Substance abuse
- Inadequate nutrition
- Certain diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and diabetes
How to Keep Gingivitis from Turning into Periodontitis
An experienced periodontist can prevent gingivitis from turning into periodontitis. Good oral hygiene, smoking cessation, professional cleanings, and antibiotic therapy can stop the progression of gum disease. At Gallardo Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, the doctor will determine the best treatments for your situation, walk you through the treatment process, and routinely check that your gingivitis is not worsening.
How is gum disease treated?
Non-surgical treatment is unique.
Dr. Gallardo will begin treatment by determining the stage of infection and the condition of your gums using digital x-rays and a thorough examination. At this time, the doctor can determine viable treatment options, including the use of modular periodontal therapy. This conservative, non-surgical method is unique and provides exceptional results in the early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gingivitis and periodontitis.
Modular Periodontal Therapy
Modular periodontal therapy is a noninvasive method for reversing gum disease. By extracting the plaque and tartar under the gums, harmful bacteria and irritants are eliminated. Then, by focusing on the cause of the problem, modular periodontal therapy can prevent the future accumulation of plaque. Modular periodontal therapy provides a safe, pain-free method for treating gum disease without the need for more invasive treatments such as flap surgery or grafts.
Am I a Good Candidate for Modular Periodontal Therapy?
If you have been diagnosed with a form of gum disease and are looking for an alternative to more invasive treatments such as flap surgery or grafts, modular periodontal therapy may be the ideal solution. This noninvasive method of treating gum disease is a great option for those who may have sensitive teeth or gums, or who want to avoid the pain and discomfort associated with flap surgery. A dental professional will determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment based on your current oral health and any prior medical history.
You can also benefit from modular periodontal therapy if you are interested in getting dental implants to replace missing teeth due to gum disease. Patients who receive this form of treatment first often find that their gums are healthier and better prepared for implant placement, resulting in improved outcomes.
Modular periodontal therapy is a safe, effective way to treat gum disease without the need for more invasive treatments. If you think you might be a good candidate for this type of therapy, consult your dental professional today.
Modular Periodontal Therapy Initial Consultation
At Gallardo Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, the initial consultation for modular periodontal therapy is an important step in treating gum disease. During this initial meeting, the doctor will discuss any of your symptoms such as a bad taste in your mouth or bleeding gums. The doctor will also review your medical history to identify any underlying conditions that may have contributed to your gum disease such as cardiovascular diseases or respiratory diseases. Additionally, the doctor can assess your quality of life due to gum disease and see if you have any other health conditions.
After examining your mouth and discussing any symptoms, the doctor will create a customized treatment plan for modular periodontal therapy based on your individual needs. This plan will include detailed instructions about how to properly care for your teeth and gums at home. It may also include additional treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line, antibiotic therapy, or other therapies recommended by the dentist.
The initial consultation helps determine if modular periodontal therapy is right for you and what kind of treatment you should expect during each session. Your dental professional will explain all aspects of this therapy so that you understand how it works and can make an informed decision about how to care for your oral health.
If you are looking for a safe, non-invasive treatment for gum disease in Miami, FL, visit Gallardo Periodontics and Implant Dentistry today. Their experienced team of dental professionals can help you determine if modular periodontal therapy is the right choice for you.
Treating Periodontitis with Modular Periodontal Therapy
Modular periodontal therapy (MPT) uses a combination of periodontal non-surgical treatments to treat periodontitis. MPT is a minimally invasive treatment option that allows patients to avoid some of the risks associated with traditional surgical procedures.
Cleaning
Scaling and polishing are included in routine dental cleaning at the dentist office, although these may not be enough to treat periodontitis. Root planing refers to a deep cleaning process that gets under the gum line, where bacteria can build. The debridement process is vital for an effective gum disease treatment plan.
Irrigation
Irrigation pulses a jet of high-pressure water through a small handheld device, rinsing plaque and tartar away from the surface of the teeth and along the gum line. You can do irrigation for gum disease at home with tools such as a Water Pik or Hydro Floss. Additionally, routine irrigations performed by a periodontist will use professional-grade device and medicated solutions to ensure maximum control of gum disease.
Antibiotics
Treatment with antibiotics is an important step for patients suffering from advanced gum disease. Antibiotics for gum disease, which may include amoxicillin or metronidazole, can successfully eliminate infection below the gum line, allowing the mouth to heal. When you visit our practice, our experienced professionals will determine the best course of action and prescribe any medications, as well as develop a proper treatment plan for you.
Deep Cleaning: Scaling
A dental specialist commonly diagnoses periodontal disease by measuring the depth of pockets between the gum and teeth. People who don’t have gum disease typically have pockets less than 3 mm deep. Pockets with a depth of more than 4 mm are a sign of gum disease, as the gum has started to pull away from the tooth. The tartar and plaque that collect in deep pockets aren’t removed by brushing and flossing alone.
You’ll need to see a dentist or periodontal specialist, such as Dr. Gallardo, to remove built-up plaque and tartar from below the gum line, in the pockets. The first part of a deep cleaning is known as scaling. Your dentist will typically use either a manual scraping tool to remove the tartar or an ultrasonic device to clear away the tartar and plaque. An ultrasonic scaler vibrates, which helps break up the calculus. After using an ultrasonic scaler, a dentist typically finishes the process using a handheld scraper.
Root Planing
Non-surgical treatment for gum disease also typically involves root planing. The goal of root planing is twofold. (1) It removes tartar and bacterial toxins from the root’s surface, leaving a smooth area. (2) When the root surface is smoothed, it’s more difficult for tartar to build up and for bacteria to collect there. After planing, the gums have a good chance of healing and reconnecting to the tooth, helping reduce the size of the pockets and reverse the course of the disease.
Supportive Periodontal Therapy
Health benefit to our patients
For periodontal procedures to be successful in the long term and to lessen the dangers of complications, we strongly advise our patients to schedule supportive periodontal therapy appointments. Beyond just removing stains and calculus that have formed on your teeth, your dental provider will spend careful attention evaluating your teeth to determine if your periodontal disease is in remission or if the disease may be progressing. If we see any signs of progression, we remove the bacteria from below your gum line before irreversible bone loss occurs. Early detection allows a more conservative and cost-saving approach to treating any changes in your periodontal disease. Also, as a health benefit to our patients, we perform an oral cancer screening at each supportive periodontal treatment appointment.
The American Academy of Periodontology recommends that patients with periodontal disease have supportive periodontal treatment appointments every three to four months. Adherence to this recommendation has proven, through years of clinical research, to be the one overwhelming factor that influences whether patients will keep their teeth. Please call today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced, friendly, and professional dental hygienists.
Treatment for Advanced Periodontitis
If your periodontitis is more advanced, surgical intervention might be needed. Your dentist may discuss several options with you, including:
Soft tissue grafts
Soft tissue grafts are placed to reinforce soft tissues that have been lost due to gum recession. Your surgeon may harvest the grafts from your body or use donor tissue.
Flap surgery
Flap surgery is a periodontal surgery procedure that allows for intensive root planing and scaling.
Guided tissue regeneration
Guided tissue regeneration is done to initiate bone regrowth. It uses biocompatible fabric to provide structure and support.
Bone grafting
If the bone around a tooth root is destroyed, bone grafting may be considered. It uses fragments of your bone or donor bone to reconstruct the jaw. The purpose is to keep your tooth in place so that you do not lose it.
Tissue-stimulating proteins
Using tissue-stimulating proteins, healthy tissue and bone growth are stimulated using a special gel.
You should get help as quickly as possible for periodontitis so that you can minimize the damage that it causes. When caught early enough, you can also stop tooth loss from occurring.
You should get help as quickly as possible for periodontitis so that you can minimize the damage that it causes. When caught early enough, you can also stop tooth loss from occurring.
Modular Periodontal Therapy Potential Risks
Modular periodontal therapy is an effective non-surgical way of treating periodontal disease. This treatment option has been shown to reduce the risk factors associated with periodontal disease, but as with any medical procedure, it has potential risks.
The most common potential risk of modular periodontal therapy is that bacterial plaque can still remain in the mouth and cause further periodontal infection and damage. Patients must adhere to their post-treatment care instructions to make sure they maintain proper oral hygiene habits and keep their periodontal health in check. Additionally, some patients may experience minor discomfort or irritation following a modular periodontal therapy treatment, but this generally subsides within a few days. If not properly treated, bacterial infections can lead to more serious conditions including gum recession or even tooth loss. It is important to speak with your dentist about all potential risks before undergoing modular periodontal therapy.
Recovery from Modular Periodontal Therapy
Recovery from modular periodontal therapy can be a lengthy process, but if done properly, it can help you avoid more invasive treatments. The first step is to identify the stage of gum disease you have. Non-surgical periodontal treatment such as modular periodontal therapy is used to treat mild to moderate stages of gum disease.
During this therapy, your dentist will remove plaque and calculus (tartar) buildup along with any infected tissue. After that, the gums are thoroughly cleaned and treated with special medicines to help reduce inflammation and bacteria levels. To complete the process, your dentist may suggest changes in your usual dental care routine such as brushing and flossing more regularly or using an antiseptic mouthwash. Recovery usually takes several weeks as the gums heal and settle down into their normal position. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions closely during this time so that you can ensure successful treatment results.
Stop Periodontal Disease Early
If you are concerned about the health of your gums, or are noticing signs of gingivitis or periodontitis, contact our office to schedule a consultation. Call our Miami dental office at 305.447.1447 for more information. With the help of Modular Periodontal Therapy, Dr. Gallardo can restore a healthy mouth and gums.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Surgical Treatments
Yes, periodontitis can be cured without surgery in some cases. Non-surgical treatments such as root planing and scaling, tissue-stimulating proteins, and supportive periodontal therapy can help reduce the symptoms of periodontitis and prevent it from progressing. However, if the disease is more advanced, surgical methods may be necessary.
Non-surgical treatment for periodontitis can help reduce the symptoms of gum disease and prevent it from progressing, including loose teeth. Root planing and scaling are common non-surgical treatments that involve using specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. Tissue-stimulating proteins can also stimulate healthy tissue and bone growth. Additionally, supportive periodontal therapy appointments every three to four months may help keep the disease in remission.
Yes, periodontitis can be cured with proper treatment such as root planing and scaling, tissue-stimulating proteins, and supportive periodontal therapy to reduce periodontal pockets.
No, periodontitis does not stay forever. With proper treatment and care, it can be treated and kept in remission. However, without treatment, periodontitis is likely to progress and can eventually lead to more serious issues such as tooth loss.
No, periodontitis cannot be stopped at home. It is a serious condition that requires professional treatment to reduce the symptoms and prevent it from progressing further. At-home care such as diligent brushing and flossing can help to keep the disease in remission, but professional intervention is necessary to successfully treat it.
If you live near Miami, FL, Gallardo Periodontics and Implant Dentistry offers non-surgical treatments among its services, and is conveniently located at 2020 SW 27th Ave Miami, FL 33145
Why choose Dr. Gallardo
- Dr. Gallardo has over 25 years of experience offering general dentistry and specialized periodontics to patients throughout South Florida.
- Graduated from the University of Miami
- Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry
- Accepted into the V.A. Medical Center General Practice Residency Program of the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs where he was honored with the “Outstanding Resident of the Year” Award.
- C.A.G.S. (Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study) from Boston University
- Has lectured nationally and internationally to dentists and hygienists and has been sponsored by companies such as Procter and Gamble to speak on clinical topics related to gum disease and implant dentistry.
- Dr. Gallardo remains on the leading edge of periodontics and implant dentistry through his active and past involvement with University of Florida, Florida Association of Periodontists and North American Society of Periodontists.
