While we do prefer preventative treatments when possible, sometimes gums and teeth develop infections that can be harmful to overall health. Gum disease is a buildup of bacteria along the gum line, typically causing swelling and irritation. If left untreated, early gum disease, commonly called gingivitis, can evolve into more serious stages of periodontal disease.
Gum disease progresses in four stages:
- Gingivitis.
- Slight periodontal disease.
- Moderate periodontal disease.
- Advanced periodontal disease (periodontitis).
Our staff can prevent the progression of this disease and help you maintain excellent habits to reverse or halt gum disease before it worsens.
Why Should I Visit Advanced Dentistry by Design for Gingivitis and Periodontitis Treatment?
Gum disease does not always display obvious symptoms right away. Regular visits with our dental team allow us to catch the following signs and symptoms of gum disease in their early stages:
- Inflammation along the gum line.
- Loose or painful teeth.
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing.
- Mouth odor.
- Sore or receding gums.
- Bite changes and jaw pain.
Our dental staff has the right skills, tools, and knowledge to treat gum disease at any stage and provide preventive measures to stop the disease from progressing. We have a variety of gum disease treatments to restore your health and keep your smile intact.
What Are the Dangers of Not Treating My Gum Disease?
Your oral health has an impact on the health of the rest of your body. Neglected gum disease may result in various other health conditions:
- Heart disease.
- Diabetes.
- Arthritis.
- Pneumonia.
- Alzheimer’s.
Bacteria found in gum disease can enter the body’s other systems and increase the risk of the development of these health problems.
Additionally, untreated gum disease can eventually become irreversible. In even early stages, it may result in tooth loss, damage to gum tissues, bite problems, frequent oral infections, and damage to the jaw. The sooner you catch gum disease, the less likely you’ll face additional oral or general health complications due to the disease.
Why Do I Have Such Bad Breath?
Bad breath is a symptom of gum disease, so if you suspect or experience other symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment before further damage can occur. Both bad breath and gum disease are characterized by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, which develop a foul odor. To get rid of the bad breath, seek out a dental cleaning and exam from Advanced Dentistry by Design.
What Causes Gum Disease and Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease is caused or assisted by many factors:
- Plaque buildup.
- Poor dental hygiene.
- Dental crowding.
- Nutritional deficiencies.
- Hormonal shifts.
- Genetics.
- Smoking or tobacco use.
- Some medications.
- Pregnancy.
Whether gum disease is caused by lifestyle or health issues, the bacteria that accumulate cause the same signs, symptoms, and damage to your gum tissues.
Gum Disease Treatment at Our Dentist Office
The goal of any gum disease treatment procedure is to eliminate harmful bacteria and repair and restore gum tissue. At Advanced Dentistry by Design, our dentists treat gum disease with both surgical and nonsurgical procedures:
- Scaling and Root Planing | Using specialized instruments, scaling and root planing, also called deep cleaning, removes tartar and bacteria from the surface of your teeth and around your gums.
- Periodontal Maintenance | Much like typical dental cleanings, periodontal maintenance removes plaque and bacteria. Unlike typical cleanings, this procedure is used to treat existing gum disease and is performed every three or four months.
- At-Home Gum Care | Gum disease can be treated at home with excellent oral hygiene and specialized solutions designed to remove and eliminate bacteria and plaque buildup. At-home care can also do a lot to prevent gum disease.
- Laser-Assisted Gingivectomy | Using advanced lasers, our dentist can target affected gum tissue. Laser-assisted gingivectomy heals and restores the area with a minimally invasive, quick procedure.
Get Excellent Periodontal Care at Advanced Dentistry By Design!
Gum disease won’t go away on its own, but will continue to worsen over time without treatment. Our dental staff has the tools and knowledge to detect early gum disease and treat every stage with advanced procedures and preventive measures that protect the health of your gums. Contact our practice today for more information.