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Gum disease is an infection that causes damage to the soft tissue and bone within the mouth. There are multiple stages of gum disease, in which the soft tissues and bone become more infected. A lot of sufferers from gum disease wonder what the healing process looks like, and if it is even possible. Thankfully, modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of all kinds of treatment plans to help encourage healing. Ready to learn more?

Healing after gum disease

The following information outlines how the soft tissues and bone heal from gum disease. Keep reading to learn more!

How does gum disease affect the soft tissues and bone?

Before understanding how healing takes place, it is first necessary to learn how gum disease affects the soft tissues and the bone. When the gums become infected, it will start out relatively minor and the spread will be slow. If caught early enough, a general dentist can usually perform a deep cleaning to remove bacterial plaque. 

However, if the gum disease persists, it is likely that the soft tissues and bone structure will begin to feel the effects. When this happens, the soft tissues may begin to swell, bleed or even recede. Additionally, the bone will begin to deteriorate, which can cause serious damage to the jawbone and teeth. 

Healing of the soft tissue

The soft tissue refers to the actual gums, which are responsible for holding the teeth in place. When these become infected with gum disease, it requires special care to encourage and force healing. Outlined below are some of the most common ways that the gums can heal from an infection.

• Oral rinses: General dentists often prescribe an oral rinse for patients to use when suffering from gum disease. Oral rinses contain agents that encourage healing and help clear out bacteria. Results will not be shown overnight but after a few uses, the gums will feel less inflamed. 
• Dental cleanings: There are certain types of dental cleanings that general dentists can perform on patients who suffer from gum disease. Scaling and root planing is a common type of cleaning that allows for the clearing out of the soft tissues. Once cleared out, the gums will start to heal. 

Healing of the bone

When the bone becomes affected by gum disease, it will require a lot of work to encourage healing. General dentists typically have to work with other dental specialists to ensure that bone regeneration is done properly. Most commonly, a dental bone graft will be required. However, in earlier cases of gum disease, the bone can heal with a scaling and root planing procedure. 

Learn more today!

Gum disease can be a hard thing to recover from, however, with the help of a general dentist, it is possible. Both the soft tissues and the bone can heal, allowing for strong gums and good oral health.

Any questions or concerns regarding gum disease and the healing process should be addressed by a general dentistry office. Reach out today to learn more or to get started with the help you need!

Request an appointment here: https://www.drmattliautaudconcorddentist.com or call Matt Liautaud, D.D.S., Inc. at 925-687-8250 for an appointment in our Concord office.