Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious condition that affects the health of your gums and the bone that supports your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, infection, and other health problems. Fortunately, Center Valley Dental offers comprehensive treatment options to help patients manage and overcome periodontal disease. By catching the disease early and providing the proper care, we can help you maintain a healthy smile and protect your overall well-being.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and hardens into tartar. This leads to inflammation and infection in the gums, which can cause the tissue to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where more bacteria can accumulate. Over time, this can damage the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place, leading to tooth loss if not treated properly.
There are two main stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
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Gingivitis is the early stage and is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the damage is reversible with good oral hygiene and professional dental care.
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Periodontitis is the more advanced stage of the disease. At this point, the infection has spread below the gumline, damaging the bone and tissue supporting the teeth. This can lead to tooth loss if left untreated, and it requires more intensive treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
The signs of periodontal disease can be subtle, but it’s important to watch for any changes in your gums or teeth, as early detection can make a big difference in treatment outcomes. Some common signs of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums, or gums that are pulling away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain when chewing or biting down
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation.
Periodontal Disease Treatment Options
At Center Valley Dental, we offer a range of treatment options for patients with periodontal disease. The type of treatment you receive will depend on the severity of the condition and your individual needs.
Scaling and Root Planing
One of the most common treatments for periodontal disease is scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and below the gumline. The dentist will also smooth out the roots of your teeth to help prevent bacteria from reattaching.
Scaling and root planing is often the first step in treating gum disease, especially if it’s in the early stages. This treatment can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and prevent further damage to your gums and bone.
Gum Grafts
In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, the gums may recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. This can lead to sensitivity and increase the risk of tooth decay and damage. To address this, we may recommend a gum graft, a procedure that involves taking healthy tissue from another part of your mouth (or using donor tissue) and attaching it to the affected area to cover the exposed roots.
Gum grafts not only protect the teeth but also improve the appearance of your smile by restoring the natural gumline.
Laser Gum Therapy
At Center Valley Dental, we use advanced laser technology to treat gum disease with precision and minimal discomfort. Laser gum therapy targets and removes diseased tissue and bacteria without harming healthy tissue. This treatment can promote faster healing and reduce the need for more invasive procedures.
Contact Us for Periodontal Treatment
At Center Valley Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality care to help our patients manage and treat periodontal disease. If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healthier gums and a brighter smile.