The primary goal in treating gum disease is to eliminate bacteria and control infection. The types and frequency of treatments depend on the severity of the condition. Effective treatment always requires the patient to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home, starting with brushing twice daily, flossing, and using any recommended appliances or rinses.
Regular Dental Examinations
We recommend dental examinations every 3 to 6 months. During these visits, Dr. Daniel Kaufman will show you areas where bacteria tend to accumulate and suggest appropriate tools to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Professional Cleaning and Treatment
After the examination, Dr. Kaufman will perform a professional cleaning to refresh your mouth. Some cases require scaling and root planing:
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Scaling removes tartar from above and below the gum line
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Root planing smooths rough spots on the tooth root where bacteria gather
These procedures help reduce inflammation, bleeding, gum swelling, and bad breath (halitosis). Following professional cleaning, the infection can often resolve.
Lifestyle Advice
Dr. Kaufman may also advise lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, to improve treatment outcomes.
Advanced Treatments
In more severe cases, deep scaling and root planing may be necessary, performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Medications like antimicrobial mouth rinses containing chlorhexidine help prevent bacterial regrowth during healing, particularly after gum surgery. Antibiotic tablets may be prescribed short-term for acute or persistent periodontal infections, complementing professional cleaning but not replacing it.
Surgical Options
For advanced gum disease, surgical treatment under local anesthesia might be recommended. Long-term studies continue to evaluate the effectiveness of medications in reducing the need for surgery.
Patient Empowerment and Support
At Tooronga Family Dentistry, we empower you to take control of your oral health, supporting your decisions and clearly explaining the advantages and disadvantages of every proposed treatment.
If your gums are bleeding, don’t wait schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel Kaufman to find out what can be done.