Treatment
Furcation defects — and the periodontitis that causes them — need to be treated promptly. Without treatment, the affected teeth may need to be extracted.
A study published in the Dentistry Journal explains that scaling and root planing may be used to treat a defect. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and roots, and then smoothing the rough areas on the surface of the roots.
To treat bone loss, dentists may perform a surgical procedure known as bone grafting. In this procedure, natural or synthetic bone is used to replace areas of lost bone. Proteins that stimulate the tissues may be used to help the area heal effectively.
In cases where the gum tissue has receded enough to expose the tooth roots, gum grafts may be a part of the treatment plan. Gum grafting involves taking gum tissue from another part of the mouth, like the roof of the mouth or a synthetic material, and attaching it to receded areas.
Teeth that are affected by this complication may not be able to be saved. When a tooth is lost, it can be replaced in many ways. Dental bridges may be used to replace missing teeth, and they're often anchored to the adjacent teeth. Dental implants are another option and can be surgically implanted in the jaw without affecting the surrounding teeth. For people who are missing more than a few teeth, dentures may also be another option.