Gingival enlargement is a condition in which the size of the gums around the teeth becomes abnormally large. Various factors, including genetics, medication, and systemic diseases, can cause it. Symptoms of gingival enlargement include red gums, difficulty cleaning, and bad breath. Treatment is often necessary to prevent further damage to the gums and teeth.
The enlargement of the gums can be both cosmetic and functional. Functionally, the enlarged gums can make it hard to clean the teeth properly and increase the risk of periodontal disease. Cosmetically, the appearance of the enlarged gums can be aesthetically displeasing. Gingival enlargement is usually diagnosed with a physical examination of the mouth and by taking a medical history. The dentist may also order x-rays to look for any underlying bone problems.
Treatment for Gingival Enlargement
Treatment for gingival enlargement depends on the underlying cause. Sometimes, the condition may resolve independently if the underlying cause is treated. Often, scaling and root planning help address gum diseases, but if gingival enlargement is due to medication, the dentist may advise the patient to stop taking the medication or switch to an alternative.
In other cases, the dentist may recommend a special cleaning procedure, such as scaling and root planing, to remove plaque buildup. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the overgrown tissue.
#1. Scaling
The first step in treating gingival enlargement is determining the underlying cause. Antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce swelling if an infection or inflammation causes the condition.
This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and around the gum line, smoothing the roots of the teeth, and cleaning any pockets that have formed between the teeth and gums.
Scaling treatment for gingival enlargement involves removing the excess tissue from the gums. This may involve using either a laser or ultrasonic scaler to remove the excess tissue. Laser scalers use a beam of light to break down the tissue, while ultrasonic scalers vibrate at a high frequency to break up the tissue. Both procedures are quick and painless and can usually be completed in one or two appointments.
If scaling treatment for gingival enlargement is not enough to reduce the size of the gums and improve their overall health, other treatments may be necessary. One option is periodontal surgery, which involves removing diseased tissue from the gum line and reshaping the gums to improve their appearance.
Other procedures, such as gum grafts or crown lengthening, may also be necessary if the gum tissue is severely damaged or if there is bone loss due to periodontal disease.
#2. Root planning
This procedure involves the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing out any rough spots on the tooth root to reduce bacteria and promote healing. Scaling and root planing can reduce gum swelling and improve gum health.
Root planning is an effective treatment for gingival enlargement. The procedure involves using a scaler to remove plaque and calculus from the root surfaces. A curette dental instrument is then used to smooth out irregularities, allowing better cleaning and improved gum health.
#3. Antibiotics
Another common treatment for gingival enlargement is antibiotics. Antibiotics may be used to treat gingivitis, an infection of the gums that can lead to gingival enlargement. Depending on the antibiotic prescribed, it may be taken orally or applied directly to the affected area.
Periodontal surgery is usually reserved for severe gingival enlargement, in which the tissue has become too large to be treated with scaling alone. Surgery may involve removing excess tissue, grafting healthy tissue into the area, or reshaping the existing tissue to promote better gum health.
#4. Surgery
Your dentist may recommend surgery to treat gingival enlargement. This may involve removing excess gum tissue and reshaping the gums to reduce their size. Gum grafts may be used to restore lost gum tissue and improve the appearance of the gums.
This may involve removing excess gum tissue or reshaping the gums to improve their appearance and promote better oral hygiene practices. Surgery may also be necessary to remove any periodontal pockets developed due to gingival enlargement.
Aftercare
It is important to note that while root planning can be an effective treatment for gingival enlargement, it is not necessarily a cure. Regular oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are necessary to maintain good gum health. Patients should also be aware that root planning may cause temporary sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure.
In conclusion, root planning is an effective treatment for gingival enlargement. It involves using special instruments to remove plaque and calculus from the root surfaces and smooth out irregularities. However, it is important to remember that it is not necessarily a cure-all solution and should be supplemented with regular oral hygiene practices and dental checkups.
Patients should also be aware that root planning may cause temporary sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure.
Wrapping up
Overall, the Port Dental Clinic provides excellent care for patients with gingival enlargement. We have a team of experienced dentists and hygienists dedicated to providing the best possible treatment for their patients.
The clinic offers various services, including periodontal therapy, scaling and root planing, and laser treatments. These services are designed to help patients with gingival enlargement achieve healthy and beautiful smiles. With the help of the Port Dental Clinic in Calgary, gingival enlargement can be managed effectively and treated successfully.
