Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common yet serious condition that affects many people. Recognizing the signs and seeking prompt treatment are crucial for a healthy smile. At Wesley Dental, we provide periodontal disease treatment in Greenville, TX, as part of our restorative dental services.
It begins with bacterial growth in the mouth that irritates the gum tissue. Plaque, a sticky bacterial film, feeds on sugars and starches left in the mouth from foods and drinks. Over time, plaque becomes tartar, a hardened calculus, which is harder to remove. If left untreated, harmful bacteria can destroy the gum. Professional dental care can reverse early signs of gum problems and prevent advanced gum disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease symptoms often start mild but can escalate if untreated. Here are the common signs to watch for:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums
These symptoms can be subtle, especially in the early stages. Some people may not experience pain, making it easy to overlook the problem. However, ignoring these signs can lead to severe complications, including tooth loss and even impacts on general health.
Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is the primary cause of gum disease. However, several factors can increase your risk of gum disease:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy)
- Medications that reduce saliva flow
- Illnesses that affect the immune system
Understanding these risk factors can help with prevention and early detection. It’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental check-ups.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease can begin with sensitive and bleeding gums. Over time, the gums recede, and you can lose your natural teeth. The stages of gum disease include:
- Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of gum disease. It involves inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Gingivitis is typically painless and can often go unnoticed. However, you can reverse gum inflammation with proper oral care and professional treatment.
- Mild Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, which has more severe symptoms. In this advanced stage, the gums start to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. If you have mild symptoms, we often recommend deep cleanings to remove bacteria from the teeth and gums.
- Moderate Periodontitis: At this stage, harmful bacteria can break down the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. Bone loss and increased gum recession are common in this stage. You will need more intensive treatment to keep your gum disease in check.
- Advanced Periodontitis: The most advanced stage of gum disease is not reversible. At this stage, you will develop deep gum pockets and experience loose teeth. If left untreated, advanced gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss. Gum surgery is the best option in later stages.
Why Choose Us for Gum Disease Treatment?
Before we suggest treatment for gum disease, we will conduct a thorough examination and take dental X-rays. Personalized care means that your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs. We will note your symptoms, budget, and stage of gum disease before we give recommendations.
Our office also emphasizes patient education. We want to empower you with the knowledge you need to maintain oral health. From prevention tips to post-treatment care, we aim to treat gum disease and prevent its recurrence.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Greenville, TX
Early detection and treatment can save teeth and restore oral health. Here are the common treatments available:
Professional Dental Cleaning
In the early stages, professional dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing miss. Our dentist or dental hygienist will clean all tooth surfaces above the gum line.
For more advanced cases, scaling and root planing are necessary. This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. It also smooths out the roots of the teeth, helping the gums reattach. We often use a local anesthesia for your comfort during the procedure.
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, we may prescribe antibiotics to treat gum infections. These can be oral tablets, mouth rinses, or gels applied directly to the gum pockets. If you have gingivitis, we may suggest antibacterial mouthwash to add to your oral hygiene routine. After scaling and root planing, we can also place antibiotics in the gum pockets to prevent reinfection.
Surgery
Flap surgery is required for severe gum disease that does not respond to non-surgical treatments. During this procedure, the gums are lifted back to remove tartar, and the tissues are then stitched back in place. This reduces the depth of gum pockets and makes it easier to keep the area clean.
Grafting may be needed in cases where the disease has destroyed bone and tissue. Bone grafts use fragments from your natural bone, synthetic, or donated bone to replace and encourage new growth. Tissue grafts usually involve taking tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaching it to the affected area. These procedures help restore the stability and function of the teeth.
Gum Disease Treatment FAQs
Discover more about periodontal disease treatment in Greenville, TX, with answers to these patient questions:
How can I prevent gum disease?
Here are some tips to keep gum disease at bay:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria
- Maintain a balanced diet to support oral health
- Avoid tobacco products
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
Regular dental visits are crucial as they allow for early detection and treatment of gum disease. Our dentist can also provide personalized advice and a tailored care plan.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
Gum disease treatment is usually not painful, but it can cause some discomfort. After a deep gum cleaning, your gums may feel sensitive. It can feel a bit uncomfortable, especially if your gums are swollen or infected.
If you’re concerned about pain, we can use numbing gel or local anesthesia to help you feel more comfortable. After treatment, your gums might feel sore or swollen for a few days, but this is normal. We may recommend that you use over-the-counter pain relievers. The treatment will help your gums heal and improve your oral health in the long run.
Can gum disease return after treatment?
Yes, gum disease can return after treatment if proper care isn’t taken. Even after treatment, it’s important to keep up with good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
If you don’t take care of your teeth and gums, plaque and tartar can build up again, which can lead to gum disease returning. Smoking, poor diet, and not keeping up with dental visits can also increase the risk. By staying consistent with your oral care routine, you can help prevent gum disease from coming back.
How long does scaling and root planing take?
This deep gum cleaning can take between one to two hours. However, it depends on how much work needs to be done. If you have excess buildup or deep gum pockets, we may need to do the treatment in two visits.
Do I have gum disease if my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums when you brush can be a sign of gum disease, but it doesn’t always mean you have it. Sometimes, it can happen if you haven’t been brushing or flossing regularly, which can cause your gums to become irritated. However, if your gums bleed often, feel swollen, or are painful, it could be a sign of early gum disease. If your gums continue to bleed even if you brush and floss regularly, contact our office for treatment.
Can periodontal disease affect my overall health?
Yes. When gum disease is left untreated, the bacteria in your gums can enter your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body. This can increase the risk of serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Why do I have bleeding gums during pregnancy?
Bleeding gums during pregnancy is common and usually happens because of hormonal changes. These changes can make your gums more sensitive and more likely to become swollen or irritated. This condition is called pregnancy gingivitis.
Pregnancy gingivitis can cause your gums to bleed, especially when you brush or floss your teeth. Continue to brush and floss regularly and visit our dentist for check-ups. If you notice bleeding gums, let us know so we can help prevent the condition from getting worse.
How much does gum disease treatment cost?
The cost of your gum disease treamtent will depend on the treatment type and insurance coverage. Deep gum cleanings cost less than gum surgery. You may also need multiple treatments if you have reoccurring symptoms. We will review the cost of treatment with you to ensure it stays within your budget.
Improve Your Gum Health
Do you have bleeding or irritated gums? Get periodontal disease treatment in Greenville, TX. Call Wesley Dental at 903-270-5279. You can also schedule an appointment at Wesley Dental online.
Let us know if you have questions about treatment. We’re here to help reverse your symptoms for healthier teeth and gums.