What Is The Treatment Of Plaque-associated Gum Disease?
If you have gingivitis
The measures described above to prevent gum disease will often clear mild gingivitis. If gingivitis is more severe, in addition your dentist or doctor may advise an antiseptic mouthwash (and/or antiseptic toothpaste, gel, or spray). These help to kill bacteria in the mouth and help to clear up any gum infection.
Chlorhexidine is a commonly used antiseptic mouthwash. If you are advised to use chlorhexidine, you should rinse your mouth well with water between brushing your teeth and using chlorhexidine. This is because some ingredients in toothpaste can inactivate chlorhexidine. Chlorhexidine may also stain teeth brown when used regularly. This staining is likely to need to be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. Staining can be reduced by:
* Brushing teeth before (but not after) using the chlorhexidine.
* Avoiding drinks that contain tannin within 2-3 hours of using chlorhexidine (for example, tea, coffee, and red wine).
* Using the 1.2% solution instead of higher strength solutions.
If you have periodontitis
You should see a dentist. In addition to the measures described above to treat gingivitis you may need specialist dental treatment. Various procedures may be done, depending on the severity of the condition and other factors. For example, in one procedure a dentist may clean a ‘pocket’ next to a tooth where infection is present. Following this, a dentist may smooth out the surface of the tooth next to the gum. This helps the gum to close back onto the tooth, and for any ‘pocket’ to disappear.
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