Gum Disease Treatment Albuquerque
Periodontal Therapy for Bleeding Gums
Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss among American adults – simply put, this health problem is no laughing matter. That’s why Dr. Boehmer's goal is to arrest its development in the earliest stages possible through education, dedicated screenings, and revitalizing gum disease treatment in Albuquerque. If you’re experiencing oral bleeding after flossing or seeing puffy, red oral tissue in the bathroom mirror, contact our Albuquerque dental practice today.
Why Choose Dr. Monica Boehmer for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Completed More Than 2,500 Hours in Continued Education
- Dentist with 20+ Years of Experience
- Dedicated Deep Cleanings for Comprehensive Health Benefits
What is Gum Disease?
According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults aged 30 years and older are living with some form of gum disease. This occurs when a bacterial infection forms inside the mouth and begins to attack the gums and bone. It often develops in different stages with gingivitis – the initial stage – presenting symptoms that can be reversed with regular oral hygiene habits and professional cleanings. If left untreated, it can advance and become periodontitis, which can only be managed, not cured.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The symptoms of gum disease will vary from person to person; however, if you notice any of the following, do not hesitate to call and schedule an appointment with Dr. Boehmer:
- Bleeding or inflamed gums
- Red and tender gums
- Bad breath or halitosis
- Gum recession (your teeth appear longer than before)
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Tooth sensitivity
- Loose permanent teeth
- Change in your bite or how your restorations fit
- Permanent tooth loss
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
Treating gum disease begins by meeting with Dr. Boehmer to discuss the various options that are available. After examining your mouth and determining the severity of your condition, she will go over which method of care will be best for your oral and overall health.
Laser Gum Disease Treatment
Laser dentistry is an effective way to treat gum disease because of its ability to target diseased tissues while leaving healthy areas untouched. By cleaning the gum pockets of bad bacteria and infection, healthier tissue can begin to regenerate and reattach to the bone. Laser gum disease treatment is less invasive and allows for faster healing, in part because it reduces bleeding and swelling, and minimizes the risk of post-operative infection.
Antibiotic Treatment
Antibiotic treatment with ARESTIN is often combined with scaling and root planing to further curb and control periodontal infection. This medication comes in the form of a powder that’s directly applied to the gum pockets. There, it adheres to the inflamed tissue and releases a steady flow of potent antibiotics that continues to fight leftover bacteria for weeks following your initial treatment.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is an in-depth professional cleaning that targets plaque and tartar buildup throughout the mouth to promote better gum health. When an infection forms as a result of bacterial accumulation, inflammation, bleeding, and tenderness can occur. If left untreated, gum pockets can form, making it easier for the bacteria to spread from the gumline and teeth to the underlying bone and bloodstream, impacting various areas of the body. With scaling and root planing, though, Dr. Boehmer can quickly address the problem to prevent additional damage to a person’s oral and overall health.
Do You Need Scaling & Root Planing?
When gum disease is in its earliest stages – gingivitis – symptoms can be reversed with regular cleanings and good at-home oral hygiene. However, if bacteria are allowed to spread further into the soft oral tissues, the infection can lead to significant problems that indicate the need for scaling and root planing, such as:
- Bleeding or swollen gum tissue
- Bad breath or halitosis
- Receding gumline
- Teeth feel loose or are shifting
- Unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Difficulty chewing
Without addressing the issue in a timely manner, the risk of the infection reaching the bloodstream and traveling to other areas of the body drastically increases. Gum disease is commonly linked to cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline (i.e., dementia, Alzheimer's), tooth loss, heart attack, and diabetes complications.
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is performed in two distinct sections – first, the “scaling” portion will cleanse above and below the gumline, reaching down to the tooth’s roots. Then, during the “root planing” procedure, the tooth root surfaces will be gradually smoothed of any rough areas, which are prime targets for bacterial accumulation.
Our goal is to encourage the inflamed gum tissue to become firm once more, causing the periodontal pockets to shrink so that they can reattach to the teeth.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
When our team is finished with scaling and root planing, there will likely be some mild soreness for a few days. This is normal, but be mindful of any sensitivity you might feel afterward, as well as bleeding or swelling. As your gum tissues begin to heal, you will need to be proactive about your oral hygiene routine and avoid bad bacterial growth. You can do this by staying on top of your brushing and flossing habits as well as using an antibiotic or prescription-based mouthwash.
If you experience discomfort, don’t hesitate to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, as this should only be temporary. Within 1-2 weeks, you should no longer feel any tenderness or sensitivity.