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.
How to 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 care plan tailored to your needs.
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.