If you’re an avid movie-goer, maybe you’ve watched scenes where a character’s arm or leg gets so infected that the best solution is simply to “chop it all off.” While this can be a real-life scenario in extreme situations, the principle doesn’t always work very well on teeth. If you have gum disease, for example, extracting your pearly white may not be the best option.
To learn more about how gum disease can be treated, keep reading!
Will a Tooth Extraction Cure My Gum Disease?
The short answer is no, a tooth extraction will not cure gum disease. Unlike a cavity, which targets dental enamel, gum disease attacks your, well, gums. Your gums might be responsible for keeping your teeth in place, but if you remove a nearby tooth, the bacteria causing the problem will still be in the soft pink tissue.
That said, tooth extractions are sometimes a necessary step for gum disease treatment. If the bacteria have damaged your gums or other oral tissues too much, your tooth may no longer be viable due to lack of support. In this case, removing the tooth can make it easier to eliminate the troublesome bacteria infecting your mouth.
How is Gum Disease Treated?
There are two main methods for eliminating gum disease. Depending on what your dentist finds during your oral exam, they may recommend one or the other or a combination of both.
- A scaling and root planing involves a more in-depth dental cleaning that specifically targets gum disease bacteria. Your dentist will also smooth out any periodontal pockets near your dental roots to help prevent further infection.
- Antibiotic treatments seek to neutralize and kill gum disease bacteria directly. For this method, your dentist will simply apply the medicine to your gumline.
If your gum disease is mild, on the other hand, you may be able to treat it with intensified oral hygiene efforts. Rest assured, your dentist will let you know which option is likely to work best for you!
What to Do if You Do Need an Extraction
If you do need a tooth extraction as part of your gum disease treatment, it’s important to listen to your dentist’s post-op instructions! Your mouth will be more vulnerable than usual as you recover, which will make it easier to develop further infections. Follow their guidance, and you’ll be well on your way towards a healthier smile!
About the Practice
At Esplanade Dental Care, we have three excellent dentists who each have their own specialties. If you need gum disease treatment in Downers Grove, our team will be able to provide comprehensive care, comfortably eliminating your gum disease and providing you with an aesthetic replacement in the case of tooth extraction. Rest assured; we’ll take care of all your oral health needs! To contact our office, call 630-493-0914.