Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is something that the majority of the population will eventually develop in one form or another throughout their lifetime. A report from the CDC states that periodontal disease affects about half of adults over 30 years old and 70% of people over 65. 

In large, these numbers are consistent for developing and developed areas, and Fremont, CA is no different. Because of the commonality of periodontal disease, Dr. Chew and the staff here at Chew Dental Group have extensive experience with periodontal disease treatment. 

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Treatment, or therapy, for periodontal disease is different for each stage of progression. The American Dental Association recognizes four main stages of this disease and, as the severity intensifies, the treatment process gets more involved.

Stage 1: Gingivitis

The first stage is commonly characterized as gingivitis and is considered “mild” by the ADA. Regular check-ups will allow for early detection and treatment without surgery.

The treatment process for Gingivitis is called scaling and root planing. It involves scraping away built-up plaque and tartar from on and around each affected tooth.

While several home remedies claim to be effective at treating gingivitis, failure to sufficiently remove plaque and tartar build-ups will result in gingivitis returning or progressing. Because of this, we highly encourage making an appointment to get it taken care of professionally, so it’s done right the first time.

Stage 2: Moderate Disease

The ADA considers stage 2 moderate progression, and treatment is almost identical to stage 1 with the addition of a minor surgical procedure known as flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery.

This surgical procedure involves making a small incision in the gum to allow access to the root of the tooth. This increased access allows the removal of deeper plaque and tartar surrounding the root. Neglecting this deeper cleaning could lead to significant tooth, gum, and bone decay caused by infection.

Stage 3: Severe Disease

Classified as “severe”, stage 3 gum disease generally requires multiple surgical procedures. 

The process for treating stage 3 periodontal disease begins the same way as stage 2 treatment but requires bone grafts and soft tissue grafts to replace what the bacteria has destroyed. 

Up to four teeth could be lost at this level of progression, so it's important to seek treatment as early as possible. If tooth loss does occur, Dr. Chew can replace them with implants or a fixed bridge to restore your natural smile.

Stage 4: Very Severe Disease 

Stage four is the most advanced level of periodontal disease. Those at this stage have already begun losing teeth, and may only have 20 or so left.

Treatment for this will require several grafts and multiple tooth extractions. 

Since many teeth are missing, many patients choose to go with dentures or partial dentures as a cost-effective alternative to implants.

Recovery After Periodontal Therapy

Since the mouth heals very quickly, the typical recovery time after surgery is one to two weeks, and patients can generally return to work or school within a day or two of receiving periodontal therapy.

Periodontal Therapy In Fremont, CA

Periodontal disease can become a serious issue, and if you have symptoms, you need to get checked out immediately!