I suspect I have gum disease because my gums have been bleeding. I have trouble getting to the dentist under the best of circumstances because of my dental anxiety. I don’t want to lose my teeth. Is there a way to deal with this without having to go to the dentist too much?
Laura
Dear Laura,
I am sorry you are having to deal with dental anxiety. I know how difficult that makes it for you to get to the dentist. While there is not a home treatment for gum disease, I do have a solution for you. I’d like you to see a periodontist who offers dental sedation options.
A periodontist has specialized training is dealing with gum disease so you will be able to get that under control more quickly than if you just went to a dentist that didn’t have that additional training. Finding one who also offers dental sedation will allow you to get your treatments in an anxiety-free/ pain-free way.
There are several levels of sedation. However, because of the extent of your anxiety and the type of treatments you need. I am going to recommend you use oral conscious sedation. This is administered by a pill. However, the pill is so strong that you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
I think you are taking the need for treatment seriously, which is great. Just don’t procrastinate this treatment. The longer it goes, the harder it will be to get things under control. You want to make sure you get in quick enough to save as many teeth as possible.
When gum disease progresses far enough, your teeth can fall out. That won’t happen immediately so don’t panic. I just wanted you to understand it is important you DO get the treatment you need. The earlier you are seen, the easier the treatment will be.
This blog is brought to you by Atlanta Dentist Dr. David Pumphrey.
