Periodontal Disease

A healthy smile depends on healthy gums. Think of your gums like a picture: your teeth act as the portrait, and the gums are the frame holding it in place. Without the frame, the picture has no foundation to support it. Maintaining healthy gums is just as important as keeping your teeth clean and healthy. Without proper attention, patients may start developing gum disease.

Periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, can have a significant impact on an individual’s overall well-being. Not only can this condition cause multiple oral concerns, but gum disease is also correlated with heart disease, diabetes, and strokes.

Your Gums Can Affect Your Overall Health

We perform a periodontal wellness screening at all new patient exams. If we detect any signs of gum disease, we have the tools to help patients manage the condition at any stage. Oftentimes, a multi-pronged strategy produces ideal results. We use a combination of resources to stop the progression of gum disease. A patient’s treatment plan may include education, in-office treatments, medications, and coaching to improve oral hygiene skills.

Our dental hygienists have undergone thorough training and are committed to continuing their education to stay up to date on the latest techniques in gum disease treatment. Our team is committed to helping each patient improve their oral health in a compassionate way.

Staying up on preventative care, such as routine dental visits and a diligent oral hygiene routine, can help intercept oral concerns before they develop into harmful conditions. Treating gum disease early is typically more predictable and less invasive.

Common Signs Of Gum Disease

  • Swollen, red, or sore gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • A receding gum line
  • Loose teeth
  • Mouth sores
  • Pus between gums and teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Changes to the way oral appliances fit

We provide various treatment options for gum disease designed to help restore diseased gum tissue. Our team creates customized treatment plans, so your periodontal therapy will be tailored to your specific needs. We work with our patients to address any habits or medical conditions that could be affecting gum health and provide individualized advice to help keep gums healthy between your dental appointments.

Treatments For Gum Disease

Antibacterial Rinses: Gingivitis and mild gum disease can typically be treated with an at-home antibacterial rinse. This special rinse reduces harmful bacteria and ceases the progression of the disease.

Scaling & Root Planning: Hygienists perform this more intense dental cleaning with special tools to scrape away plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth and remove bacteria from deep in the gum pockets. Scaling and root planning is generally performed in the early stages of gum disease to prevent gum recession and tooth loss.

Laser Dentistry: More advanced stages of gum disease can be treated with laser dentistry. A dental laser eliminates diseased tissue while keeping healthy tissue intact. Additionally, lasers can stimulate the healing process.

Oral Surgery: Complex periodontists can be treated with oral surgery. If you need oral surgery, we may refer you to a qualified oral surgeon in the area to complete this treatment.

If you are experiencing one or more of the common signs of gum disease listed above, schedule an appointment with us! We will help you get your oral health back on track.

Watch this video for more information on Gingivitis!