Maintaining healthy gums is just as important as caring for your teeth. Periodontal therapy plays a vital role in treating gum disease and preventing tooth loss. At German Ozone Medical Centre in Accra, we offer comprehensive periodontal therapy services tailored to your oral health needs.
What Is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy refers to a range of treatments designed to manage and treat gum disease (periodontitis) and restore gum health. The primary goal is to clean the pockets around teeth and prevent damage to surrounding bone. It includes non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing, and in some cases, surgical intervention.
Whether you’re dealing with early-stage gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis, timely periodontal therapy is essential to halt disease progression and promote healing.
Causes of Periodontitis
Plaque Buildup & Bacterial Infection
Gum disease begins when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—accumulates on the teeth and gumline. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed professionally. Bacteria in plaque produce toxins that irritate the gums, triggering inflammation.
Risk Factors (Smoking, Diabetes, Genetics)
Several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease:
- Smoking impairs blood flow and healing in the gums.
- Diabetes affects your body’s ability to fight infection.
- Genetics can predispose you to periodontal issues, even with good oral hygiene.
Other contributing factors include hormonal changes, certain medications, and poor nutrition.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Early Signs (Gingivitis)
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis)
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is reversible with proper treatment and oral hygiene.
Advanced Symptoms (Periodontitis)
- Gum recession (gums pulling away from the teeth)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Formation of deep periodontal pockets
- Pus between teeth and gums
When gum disease advances to periodontitis, damage becomes more severe and permanent without professional intervention.
How Is Periodontitis Diagnosed?
Dental Examination & Pocket Measurement
A dental professional will assess your gums using a periodontal probe to measure the depth of pockets between the teeth and gums. Pockets deeper than 4 mm may indicate periodontitis.
Intraoral Scanning Technology
Advanced clinics like Golden Oath use intraoral scanners to create detailed digital images of your mouth. This helps detect subtle changes in gum and bone levels over time, enhancing diagnosis and treatment planning.
Periodontal Therapy Treatment Options
Professional Dental Cleaning
Routine dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar from the teeth above the gumline and are essential for preventing gum disease.
Scaling (Deep Cleaning)
Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline. It targets periodontal pockets and smooths out bacterial buildup around the tooth roots.
Root Planing
This procedure smooths the root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria to adhere. It also allows the gums to reattach to the tooth structure.
Antibiotic Treatments
Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate persistent bacterial infections. These can be used in conjunction with scaling and root planing.
For severe cases, surgical options such as flap surgery or bone grafts may be discussed.
Benefits of Periodontal Therapy
Preventing Tooth Loss
Periodontitis is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Early and consistent periodontal therapy helps preserve the supporting structures of the teeth.
Reducing Gum Inflammation
Reducing bacterial buildup reduces inflammation and pain, improves gum appearance, and enhances overall oral health.
Aftercare & Maintenance
Oral Hygiene Tips Post-Treatment
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended
- Avoid tobacco products
Follow-Up Visits
Regular dental checkups and periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 to 6 months help prevent recurrence. Your dentist will monitor gum pocket depth and overall gum health.
FAQs About Periodontal Therapy
- What’s the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis? Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, marked by red and bleeding gums without bone loss. Periodontitis is more advanced, causing gum recession and damage to the bone supporting the teeth.
- How do I know if I need periodontal therapy? If you notice symptoms like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, it’s time to see a dentist. Early intervention is key.
- Does scaling and root planing hurt? The procedure may cause mild discomfort, but local anesthesia is often used to numb the area. Post-treatment sensitivity may occur but usually subsides.
- How long does periodontal treatment take? It depends on the severity. Initial therapy may require one or two visits, with follow-up maintenance visits every few months.
- Can gum disease be reversed with therapy? Gingivitis can be reversed. Periodontitis cannot be fully reversed, but progression can be stopped, and gum health can be significantly improved.
- What happens if periodontitis is left untreated? Untreated periodontitis can lead to tooth loss, gum infection, bone damage, and may impact systemic health (e.g., heart disease, diabetes).
- How often should I get periodontal maintenance? Typically, every 3 to 4 months after initial treatment. Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your condition.
Take Charge of Your Gum Health Don’t wait until symptoms become severe. Book a consultation at German Ozone Medical Centre today and take the first step toward a healthier smile.