Gum Infection Treatment in Baton Rouge, LA: What You Need to Know

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a bacterial infection in the mouth that can lead to tooth loss. Tooth loss can happen when you don't get gum infection treatment immediately. You're at risk for this disease when you smoke, have diabetes, crooked teeth, take certain medications such as steroids, or during pregnancy. The first thing you need to do when you have gum disease is to see a periodontist right away.

WHAT IS A GUM INFECTION?

A gum infection is especially serious when it has already progressed to the advanced stages. When the tissue around the teeth is infected, it leads to inflammation. The plaque-forming bacteria around your teeth cause inflammation. Don't wait for it to get to the advanced stages before visiting Baton Rouge Perio. Get help immediately. Below are the symptoms to watch out for:

• tender, swollen, or redness in gums
• bleeding gums
• loose teeth
• bite changes
• pain when chewing
• sensitive teeth
• dentures that no longer fit
• bad breath

Untreated gum infection can lead to other serious health problems, but you can avoid this by visiting your dentist. With a dental checkup, your dentist can inspect your mouth, teeth, and gums. He can give you a proper diagnosis and recommend the best treatment to help you effectively get rid of or manage the disease.

STAGES OF GUM DISEASE

Patients should know the different stages of gum disease and get help from a periodontist immediately to avoid serious health problems down the road. These are the different stages of gum disease.

GINGIVITIS

Plaque buildup around your teeth can lead to gingivitis. One of the symptoms you need to watch for includes bleeding gums and gum pain in some people. Most gingivitis symptoms are painless, but it's still imperative for you to see a dentist immediately.

Gingivitis is still reversible as the disease hasn't reached the jaw bone yet. You should practice good oral hygiene at all times to help manage gingivitis. It's also important to have regular dental exams and cleanings. Your dentist may refer you to see a periodontist, like Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman, to thoroughly check your gums and give you the proper treatment if issues arise.

SLIGHT PERIODONTAL DISEASE

With stage 2 gum disease, the infection has reached the bones and is slowly deteriorating. When not treated, the disease eventually leads to bone loss. See Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman immediately so they can provide you with the treatment you need. Root planing and scaling are the best treatment for deep cleaning the gums as they can help remove the deeply rooted bacteria.

MODERATE PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Like the previous stage, it's more severe as more bacteria will attack your bones. When you have the moderate stage, it becomes even more important to seek help from Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman to recommend the best treatment. Scaling and root planing are the recommended treatment for this stage of gum disease.

ADVANCED PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Please don't let your infection reach this stage as it can lead to other serious health problems, including gum recession, spacing in your teeth, and the need for dental implants. With this stage, the disease has progressed to a disease-causing bacteria that can cause swollen gums and redness. When you don't get treatment, you could face an even bigger problem, such as bone loss. Don't wait for this to happen to you — get help immediately.

SHOULD I GO TO A PERIODONTIST TO TREAT A GUM INFECTION?

When you have a gum infection, we recommend that you see a specialist called a periodontist, like Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman. A periodontist is a dentist who can help diagnose, treat and prevent gum infections. While a dentist may be able to give you a proper diagnosis, it's still best to see Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman as they specialize in the diseases of the gums and how to treat them effectively.

WHAT IS THE BEST GUM INFECTION TREATMENT?

How to treat gum infections? First, patients should always practice good dental hygiene along with other treatments recommended by Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman. Here are some available periodontal treatments.

SCALING AND ROOT PLANING

This deep cleaning treatment involves removing all built-up plaque and tartar around your teeth. Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman will ensure that they are completely clean before root planing. With the second part, Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman will smooth out the roots of your teeth to help your gums.

Always follow the aftercare tips recommended by the doctor after the treatment. You may experience some sensitivity, but don't worry, as they will prescribe medication. Your dentist may also recommend a mouth rinse.

LANAP LASER GUM SURGERY

One of the best treatments for gum disease is LANAP or Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. The FDA-approved treatment effectively treats periodontitis or gum disease with one treatment. Compared to periodontal surgery, LANAP is less invasive than traditional surgery. Speak with Dr. Markle or Dr. Herman to help you make an informed decision on what treatment is best for you.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR A GUM INFECTION TREATMENT TO HEAL?

This would highly depend on the stage of the infection. For gingivitis, it would usually clear up within two weeks of treatment. You can speak with your dentist, Dr. Markle, or Dr. Herman to know when to expect to see results after treatment.

GUM INFECTION TREATMENT IN BATON ROUGE, LA

Are you suffering from gum disease? Please don't hesitate to get in touch with Baton Rouge Perio. Our ultimate goal is to provide only exceptional periodontal services to all of our patients. We are a specialized team committed to helping patients treat gum disease and other dental problems. Our team of experienced professionals can also help with dental implants and cosmetic periodontal surgery. Let us know if you need help; we are always ready to assist. You may schedule a consultation with us or visit our office during office hours.