Periodontal Disease Treatment

You’ve probably heard of periodontal disease, but do you understand how serious it can be? Periodontal (gum) disease is a serious and persistent issue among U.S. adults. In fact, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, about 64.7 million Americans suffer from some form of periodontal disease.

Gum disease affects and inflames the soft and hard tissues in your mouth. It begins with gingivitis, where your gums are swollen and red from a buildup of bacteria. Gingivitis, when left untreated, can develop into periodontitis, which can cause your gums to actually pull away from your teeth. Receding gums can lead to bone loss and can even cause your teeth to fall out.

One of the hardest parts about diagnosing gum disease is that in its early stages, it is usually painless. This is why it’s important to come to see us regularly for hygiene visits and dental check-ups. A visual inspection of your gums can help us determine if you are in the early stages of periodontal disease and, in turn, help us treat you quickly before the condition progresses.

In extreme cases, periodontal disease may require surgery to correct. Before it gets to that point, we offer scaling and planing as well as antibiotic therapy and other personalized treatments. Scaling and planing are the removal of plaque and calculus from the roots of your teeth. This helps to cut down on bacteria, and prevent your gum disease from spreading or worsening.

At our practice, we are dedicated to preserving and maintaining your oral and overall health, which is why we take periodontal disease and treatment so seriously. If you believe that you are developing gum disease, or if you haven’t come in for a hygiene appointment or check-up for a while, make it a priority to schedule an appointment with us.