The first indication of periodontitis is an inflamed gum line that may cause discomfort or bleeding during brushing, flossing, or professional teeth cleaning. If left untreated, the gums begin to recede and pull away from the teeth, leaving gaps between the teeth and gums called periodontal pockets that can become filled with harmful bacteria. Your dentist will measure the depth of these pockets to determine the extent of the condition and what treatment is necessary. If gum disease spreads to the jawbone and connective tissues of the teeth, the jawbone can deteriorate, and teeth may eventually be lost.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease ranges from simple gum inflammation, known as gingivitis, to more severe infections, known as periodontitis. It is typically caused by poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque—a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva—to build up on the teeth and harden.
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Cost
Costs can vary based on the severity of the disease and the type of treatment required. We provide a detailed estimate during your consultation and can assist with insurance claims.
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Procedure Duration
Treatment duration varies based on the method used and the severity of the gum disease. Treatments can range from a single visit for scaling and planing to multiple visits.
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Comfort Measures
We strive to make each visit as comfortable as possible for all of our patients, using gentle techniques and providing sedation options to help you feel relaxed and at ease.
Sedation Dentistry
Effective Solutions for Healthy Gums and a Stronger Smile
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. If left untreated, it can lead to severe damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss. At First Dental Center, we offer comprehensive gum disease treatments designed to stop the disease’s progression, restore health to your gums, and prevent future complications.
Types of Treatments Offered:
Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning, non-surgical procedure done under a local anesthetic, whereby plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line are scraped away (scaling), and rough spots on the tooth root are made smooth (planing).
Medications: Antibiotic treatments can be used alone or in combination with other therapies to reduce or temporarily eliminate the bacteria associated with gum disease.
Surgical Treatments: For more advanced cases, procedures such as flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery) and bone and tissue grafts might be necessary.
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Process of Gum Disease Treatment
Initial Consultation: Comprehensive examination of your gums, assessment of gum recession, and checking for any signs of inflammation. Diagnosis and Planning: X-rays may be taken to see the bone loss and the severity of the condition. A treatment plan is then formulated based on the stage of the disease. Treatment Implementation: Based on the diagnosis, treatments such as scaling and root planing, medicated rinses, and oral antibiotics, or surgery are implemented. Ongoing Maintenance: Following treatment, maintenance care including regular check-ups and cleanings are crucial to managing gum disease.
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What Are the Next Steps?
Schedule a Consultation: Book an appointment to get a comprehensive evaluation of your gum health. Undergo a Personalized Treatment Plan: Receive a customized treatment plan tailored to address your specific gum health needs. Follow Regular Maintenance: Commit to regular maintenance visits to monitor your gum health and prevent future issues.
FAQ
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What are the signs of gum disease?
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What causes gum disease?
There are three primary reasons that can lead to gum disease. The most common one is chronic periodontitis. This happens when bacteria start to accumulate beneath the gum line due to poor oral hygiene and eventually turn into tartar, which is a hard substance that cannot be easily removed by brushing or flossing. Professional cleaning is required to remove tartar. If left untreated, the gums become inflamed and damaged, and ultimately lead to bone loss.
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, commonly known as gum disease, can be treated in two ways. The treatment you receive will depend on the severity of your condition.
Scaling and root planing are recognized as the standard treatment for periodontitis. This procedure is highly effective in managing the condition in its early to moderate stages, and it also does an excellent job of reversing its harmful effects. During this treatment, your dentist will access the areas below the gum line and between the teeth to remove harmful accumulations of plaque, tartar, and oral bacteria. Then, the root surfaces will be smoothed out to prevent future accumulations. The healing process will begin, and your gums will eventually reattach themselves to the teeth.
The second treatment is called bone grafting, which is often required when bacteria and plaque have reached the jawbone, causing deterioration and decay. At this stage, your dentist will need to surgically access the damaged jawbone. To encourage new bone growth, your dentist will apply proteins and artificial bone-like material to the areas of decay. This is an essential step in strengthening the jawbone to support dental implants to replace missing teeth.
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What is gum recession?
Gum recession is a common problem that affects almost half of the American population over the age of 50. However, it can also affect young people. Some individuals are born with thin gums, which makes them more prone to gum recession. Other factors that can contribute to gum recession include aggressive brushing, trauma, surgery, and ill-fitting partial dentures or dental appliances.
If you notice a tooth that appears longer than usual or experience pain or sensitivity while brushing and flossing, it could be a sign of gum recession. It is essential to see a dentist for a thorough examination.
If you are diagnosed with gum recession, your dentist may suggest grafting a small amount of skin from your palate and using it to cover the affected area. This treatment helps protect the tooth from further damage. It is a minor procedure that can be performed on a single tooth or multiple teeth, depending on your specific needs.
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What is the link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease?
Studies have shown a strong correlation between the amount of inflammation in the gums and the amount of inflammation in the arteries of the neck and heart. This is considered dangerous, as inflammation is the main factor in destabilizing plaque in artery walls. Both strokes and heart attacks result from the breakdown of arterial plaques.
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What can my dentist do to reduce my risk of periodontal disease?
To maintain healthy periodontal tissues, consult your dentist about appropriate homecare and an effective schedule of dental cleanings. You may be advised by your dentist to take medication such
as prescription antimicrobial mouthwash or oral antibiotics. Additionally, your dentist may recommend salivary testing to check for certain oral bacteria pathogens and to assess inflammatory and genetic risks.
Related Services
Dental Checkup
Regular professional teeth cleanings to remove plaque and tartar are essential for preventing and managing gum disease.
Dental Checkup
Fillings and Sealants
Enhance your oral health regimen with our fillings and sealants services, which can effectively prevent further decay and protect your teeth from future damage, complementing your gum disease treatment plan.
Fillings and Sealants