Gum disease is a widespread oral health issue that affects millions of adults. If you have received a diagnosis or you suspect that you might have gum disease, it is important to be proactive and well-informed. Open communication with your dentist can help you understand your treatment options and improve your smile’s health, so you should not hesitate to ask relevant questions. What specifically should you bring up? Here are a few ideas to help you have a productive and informative conversation:
1. What Treatment Options Are Available for My Gum Disease?
Your dentist will determine the best course of action based on the severity and progression of your gum disease. There is no universal solution, so you will want to ask about the treatments that are most suitable for your situation. Common options include:
- Non-surgical treatments: For early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), professional dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene may be sufficient to restore gum health. Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure, can also eliminate plaque and tartar from below the gumline. Many dentists use a laser as well to help kill harmful bacteria.
- Surgical intervention: If gum disease has advanced to periodontitis, surgical procedures such as flap surgery or tissue grafts may be necessary to repair and regenerate gum tissue. Usually, these procedures are performed by a periodontist (a dentist who specializes in gum care).
- At-home care recommendations: You may be advised to adopt a specific oral care routine, including the use of antimicrobial rinses, to support your recovery.
During your conversation, ask your dentist:
- What specific treatment do you recommend and why?
- How long will the treatment process take?
- What results can I realistically expect?
2. What Should I Expect During and After Treatment?
Many people feel anxious when facing dental procedures. Understanding what will happen during and after treatment can help you feel more comfortable and prepared. Ask your dentist to describe:
- The steps involved in your recommended treatment.
- Whether local anesthesia or other comfort measures will be used during the procedure.
- Sensations you might feel during and following the treatment.
- The expected recovery time and any side effects, such as soreness or sensitivity.
- Guidance for managing discomfort and promoting healing at home.
3. How Can I Reduce the Risk of Gum Disease Returning?
Once your gum disease has been treated, it is important to protect your oral health and reduce the risk of a recurrence. Your dentist can offer personalized recommendations, but some general guidelines include:
- Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss or use other interdental cleaners every day to remove plaque between your teeth.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, since these are major risk factors for gum disease.
- Adopt a balanced diet that supports your overall health and gum wellness.
- Work with your medical providers to manage any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, which can impact gum health.
Gum disease should be taken seriously, but it does not have to ruin your smile or your health! Choose to be well-informed about it so you can take the right steps to protect yourself.
Meet the Practice
At Cornerstone Dental in Fargo, Drs. Jessica Majidian and Emily Nider are pleased to work together to provide a broad range of oral health services to our community, including thorough and gentle gum disease treatment. We even use a soft tissue laser to make procedures as comfortable and effective as possible. To learn more about us or to ask questions about how we treat gum disease, contact our office at 701-237-3583.