Oral Hygiene and Gum Treatments

Gum Infection Therapy

Gum infection therapy is one of the most successful non-surgical solutions to gum disease. It is an effective fix to gum disease when it is caught early. It is a simple procedure that entails cleaning the space between the teeth and gums, down to the roots. It starts by removing tartar from the surface of the teeth (scaling) and then smoothing out the surfaces of the roots to remove infected tooth structures (root planing). With gum disease deep pockets will form around your teeth, it is important to clean the tartar deposits under the gumline to avoid the infection of bacteria. With proper maintenance,, scaling and root planing can effectively stop the progression of gum disease and help kick start the healing process.

​​​​​​​Important Notes

• Scaling and Root Planing is a minor procedure with minimal discomfort but soreness is common among patients with deep pockets under their gum line.

• It is possible that your teeth may become slightly more sensitive to temperatures.

• Minor bleeding can occur during and after the surgery

• Most discomfort can be alleviated by over-the-counter painkillers (such as ibuprofen) or ice packs (applied to the outside of the face near the treated area)

• To avoid intensifying the tenderness and bruising we recommend to be extra gentle with your routine brushing and flossing.

Gum Recession and Tissue Grafting

When you brush too hard your gums can get receded. Gum recession can also arise from periodontal disease and more commonly by excess of bite forces during the night when you sleep. It also happens with normal bite forces on tilted and crooked teeth that are not aligned properly. You may not be able to control your gum recession causes but we can help you identify and control the problematic factors.

Gum grafting will help cover and protect the exposed roots to control and stop the progression of decay. This could reduce your sensitivity and improve your aesthetic appearance of your teeth.

Advanced gum disease causes gum recession. If gingivitis is left untreated periodontitis (commonly known as gum disease) can arise causing the gums to to pull away and detach from the teeth. This will result in deep pockets, leaving the site vulnerable to bacteria to grow. The damage can spread to the bone and the supporting teeth. Another consequence of periodontitis is the gums shrinking back from the teeth, making your teeth appear longer aesthetically. This could lead to your teeth becoming loose, leading to the loss of the tooth permanently.

Check to see if you have gum recession?

Gum recession does not occur overnight, many factors can contribute to gum recession. Untreated periodontitis can have detrimental effects on your oral health and the function of your teeth. If Tampa Dentist Dr. Alex diagnoses you with gingivitis or periodontitis, it is important to take into account the following:

• If you are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

• If you are sensitive to certain flavors such as sweet, spicy or sour foods

• If your teeth are aesthetically longer than normal.

• If the spaces between your teeth growing

• If the root of your teeth are beginning to show