You need to get your gum disease under control. Infected, receding gums are a major cause of tooth loss among American adults. Midlothian dentists, Dr. Robert Long and Dr. Chris Long, suggest Arestin antibiotic therapy along with tooth scaling and root planing to eradicate infection. What’s Arestin all about?
The symptoms and causes of gum disease
Gum disease varies from mild (gingivitis) to severe (periodontitis). Either way, symptoms start because of accumulated plaque and tartar below the gumline. This biofilm from our dietary intake contains dangerous oral bacteria. This microbes feed on plaque and infect gums, causing soft tissue and bone recession and other symptoms such as:
- Redness
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Persistent bad breath
- Deep pockets between gums and tooth roots (>4mm)
- Root exposure
- Long tooth appearance
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tooth mobility
- Tooth loss
While poor oral hygiene often causes gum disease, other factors such a suppressed immune system, diabetes, smoking and even heredity contribute to the problem.
Treatment of gum disease in Midlothian
Mild to moderate gum disease is controlled with conservative treatment performed in-office at Long Family Dental in Midlothian. This service is called scaling and root planing. Using hand-held instruments, your hygienist scrapes away plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, interdental spaces and at/below the gumline.
Sometimes, ultrasonic instruments provide vibrations to loosen tartar so the hygienist can rinse it away. Root planing smooths roots so gums re-attach. Plus, handheld lasers may be used to debride infected and inflamed gums. Laser treatment involves no cutting, bleeding or sutures.
In addition, Dr. Bob and Dr. Chris recommend placement of Arestin antibiotic medication. Arestin is a sustained-release antimicrobial drug that stays in periodontal pockets for up to 21 days. Its microspheres gradually release the proper dosages day by day, relieving inflammation and healing infection. Added to scaling and root planing, Arestin reaches areas of gum pockets generally untouched by dental instruments. The result is better and longer-lasting gum healing.
Keeping gums healthy
Your Cleburne dentists tell their patients to keep gums healthy by:
- Brushing twice daily with an ADA-approved toothpaste
- Flossing each day between teeth and at the gum line
- Drinking plenty of water daily to rinse food residues off tooth surfaces
- Eating a nutritious diet, low in sugar, and high in fiber, calcium and protein
- Coming to Long Family Dental for 6-month exams and cleanings
People who tend to get gum disease more easily than others may need to see their dentists more frequently to keep gums pink, intact and healthy. Dr. Long will advise you on a treatment plan best for your oral health needs.
Is it time for your check-up?
Keep ahead of gum disease by making your routine exam and cleaning appointment at Long Family Dental. Contact the office staff today. Your gums, and teeth, will thank you for it.