The Top Treatment Plan for Periodontal Gum Disease that causes Bad Breath

Periodontal disease is among the more serious dental issues many adults face. It’s possible to start developing problems that contribute to this dental issue early in life. A trained dentist and their team can diagnose periodontal disease and determine its severity and the best possible course of treatment. A standard procedure for improving the symptoms of this disease is scaling and root planing. 

Stages of Periodontal Disease 

The first stage of periodontal disease is known as gingivitis. One of the main things you’ll notice with gingivitis is that you have swollen, red gums or bleed when flossing or brushing. If you can catch it at this point and get quick treatment, you might be able to reverse the symptoms. If you aren’t able to or neglect to see these signs, this condition can turn into periodontitis. There is no way to reverse or cure periodontitis. However, you can see a dentist and ask them for assistance with bad breath and gum disease treatment in Century City, California, with options like more frequent cleanings, antibiotics, and scaling and root planing. 

The following are signs of periodontal disease: 

• Sensitive, loose teeth
• Bleeding gums
• Teeth that appear longer and receding gums 
• Swollen, red gums
• Difficulty with chewing that includes pain
• Bad breath (halitosis) 

What Is Scaling and Root Planing? 

Scaling and root planing is an oral hygiene procedure involving deep teeth and gum cleaning. It also includes smoothing out rough surfaces found on the roots of teeth so that the patient’s gums can reattach to their teeth easier. It is not a surgical procedure, though a numbing agent will likely be put in the area before the dentist starts. 

How Effective is Scaling and Root Planing? 

Scaling removes bacteria and calculus that build up on the teeth and gums over time. It is effective at doing so. Your dentist or hygienist will explain any possible complications and preventative measures you can take to minimize the problems. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Scaling and Root Planing? 

Only periodontal disease patients will be given scaling and root planing treatments. Even if you don’t have periodontal disease, it’s in your best interest to have regular cleanings every six months to prevent gingivitis or other issues from worsening. If you have gotten a periodontal disease diagnosis yet you smoke, have diabetes, or your teeth have damage that has caused teeth misalignment, this treatment might not be as effective. If you have severe periodontitis, there is a strong chance you’ll need some dental surgery. 

Dr. Danielle Akry, DDS of Century City, California, provides various treatment options for treating bad breath and gum disease in the Los Angeles area. Call the office today at (310) 286-3111 to schedule an appointment.