Periodontal Disease Treatment (Gum Disease)
Point Clear Dental Associates provides periodontal services for all stages of gum disease to restore your oral health. Gum disease is a serious condition that can affect anyone.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Fairhope, AL
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and along the gumline. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, progressing to periodontitis, which affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. At Point Clear Dental Associates, we offer comprehensive treatment for periodontal disease:
- Often, we use a treatment called scaling and root planing. This is a two-step deep cleaning procedure. First, we remove tartar buildup on the roots of your teeth below your gumline. Then, we will smooth the surface of the tooth roots so the tooth can be reattached to the gums more easily.
- We can also prescribe an antibiotic to kill off any lingering bacteria.
You don’t have to wait until you see the telltale signs of early-stage gum disease (commonly called gingivitis). Instead, be proactive and see us at Point Clear Dental Associates for a routine exam and gum disease treatment.
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What are the signs of periodontal disease or gum dissease?
The earliest sign of periodontitis is an irritated gum line that might cause discomfort or bleeding when you brush, floss, or have your teeth cleaned professionally. If not treated, the gums will start to retract and pull away from the teeth. This creates spaces between the teeth and gums called periodontal pockets that can fill with harmful bacteria. Your dentist will measure the depths of these pockets to determine how far the condition has spread and what treatment is necessary. If gum disease makes its way to the jawbone and the connective tissues of teeth, the jawbone can deteriorate, and teeth can be lost.
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What causes gum disease?
There are three common causes of gum disease. The first and most common is chronic periodontitis. This occurs when oral hygiene is neglected and bacteria accumulate beneath the gum line, eventually turning into a hard substance called tartar. Tartar is not easily removed by brushing and flossing and requires professional cleaning. If left untreated the gums become inflamed and damaged and bone loss occurs.
The second cause is aggressive periodontitis, this is believed to be a genetic condition as it shows up in a small number of families. It moves quickly and can even be seen in children.
The last and the rarest cause is necrotizing periodontal disease. This can occur in people with immune issues and or chronic diseases. The soft tissue and bone are compromised because of a lack of blood flow.
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How is periodontal disease or gum disease treated?
Periodontal disease or gum disease is treated in two ways. Which treatment you receive depends on the severity of your condition.
Scaling and root planing are recognized as the standard treatment for periodontitis. The procedure is highly effective in managing the condition in its early to moderate stages. It also does an excellent job of reversing its harmful effects. When providing scaling and root planing treatment, your dentist will access the areas below the gum line and between the teeth and remove harmful accumulations of plaque, tartar, and oral bacteria. Then the root surfaces will be smoothed out to prevent future accumulations. Your gums should then begin the healing process and eventually reattach themselves to the teeth.
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What is gum recession?
Receding gums affect about half of Americans over the age of 50. But, young people can experience gum recession too. You may be genetically predisposed to gum recession as some people are just born with thin gums. Other times environmental might contribute to recession. Things like aggressive brushing, trauma, surgery, or ill-fitting partial dentures and dental appliances can cause gum recession.
Treatment of Gum Recession
If you notice a tooth looks long or you experience sensitivity or pain when brushing and flossing, you could have gum recession. Be sure to make an appointment and have your dentist examine the area. If you have gum recession we can typically graft a small amount of skin from your palate and patch it over the receding area. The treatment helps protect the tooth from further damage. It is a minor procedure that can be done for a single tooth or multiple teeth depending on the need.
More Questions?
If you have any questions about periodontal disease (gum disease) treatment please contact our office and we will be happy to answer any questions.
