Gum disease is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth.
Gum disease doesn't always cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. You might see a little blood when brushing, notice that your gums are swollen, or experience some tenderness. As the condition progresses, however, it can begin to affect the tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place. This more advanced form of gum disease, called periodontitis, can cause your gums to recede, your teeth to become loose, and eventually lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is especially common among older adults, but it can affect people of all ages. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it, and treatment can help keep it from getting worse.
At Northside Dental, we want you to understand what's happening with your oral health and what can be done about it. If we find signs of gum disease, we'll explain what we've discovered and go over the available treatment options. We also understand that you may have concerns about discomfort, costs, or fitting appointments into your schedule. Our staff will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your needs and helps you feel comfortable with your care. Call Northside Dental at 317-342-9446 to schedule an appointment, or visit our office at 15026 Greyhound Ct., Carmel, IN 46032.
Periodontal therapy includes several treatments used to manage gum disease and protect the tissues surrounding your teeth. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may involve deep cleaning below the gumline, ongoing periodontal maintenance, or surgical procedures. The goal is to control the infection, reduce inflammation, and prevent additional damage to your gums and jawbone. In some cases, treatment may also be recommended to address gum recession. Catching these problems early can make a difference in how much treatment you need and your ability to keep your natural teeth.
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The Three Stages of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is a progressive issue that will gradually increase in severity. If you develop gum disease, it happens in the following order:
- Gingivitis: The first and earliest stage of periodontitis, gingivitis usually develops due to bacterial plaque that builds up along your gums. Gingivitis is typically evident by sensitive gums that are red, puffy, and bleed easily. Gingivitis can be stopped and reversed with proper cleaning and improved oral health care, but if it is not treated quickly, it will develop into a more severe form of periodontitis.
- Early Periodontitis: Early periodontitis, the second stage, is caused by the continued build-up of bacterial plaque and develops when your gingivitis is left untreated. Early periodontitis has the same symptoms as gingivitis, just more severe. Your gums will become painful and more sensitive to brushing, and flossing can result in excessive bleeding. Unlike gingivitis, which can be treated with a deep cleaning and improved self-care practices, early periodontitis will now require more intensive interventions, such as scaling, root planing, or even laser gum treatment.
- Advanced Periodontitis: The third stage; this is when the bacteria, plaque, and toxins have developed to the point that your gum tissue is now being destroyed. If you have progressed to this point, you will have developed small pockets between your gums and teeth, which act as perfect spots inviting even more bacteria to grow. Because of the additional bacteria, these pockets expand, which causes gum recession. If left untreated long enough, this recession will result in bone loss.
Proper Oral Hygiene Prevents Gum Disease
Gum disease can be avoided provided you simply practice good oral hygiene habits. Our oral hygiene team at Northside Dental can give you a refresher course. Though not a guarantee, if you adhere to the health industry's suggestions, you can either reduce or eliminate your need for periodontal therapy:
- Brush your teeth twice daily and practice good brushing technique. In addition to brushing regularly, it is also important to brush effectively. We will help you with proper brushing techniques.
- Floss at least once a day. If you are someone who avoids flossing, we can suggest flossing alternatives, such as interdental brushes or floss picks.
- Understand your diet. One of the best ways you can prevent gum disease issues from developing is to avoid foods that are sugary or high in starch. If you enjoy soda or sugary beverages, try to use a straw to limit the exposure of sugar to your teeth. It is also beneficial to rinse your mouth with water following meals. By doing so, you can dislodge food remnants, which, if left alone, can create future tooth decay.
Schedule your regular dental exams. Gum disease is a perfect example of an unchecked dental issue that can result in advancing problems and the progression of decay. Schedule an exam at Northside Dental every six months, and we can prevent these issues from even developing.
Options for the Treatment of Gum Disease and Gum Recession
Northside Dental can offer a range of surgical and non-surgical periodontal therapy options that can effectively reverse the impact of your gum disease and reduce the likelihood of tooth loss, prevent the need for tooth extractions, or reduce the need for dental bone grafts. Common periodontal therapy procedures include the following:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This is a common procedure involving a deep cleaning that removes the plaque and tartar, the source of the infection, that have developed below the gum line. Scaling refers to the removal of plaque and calculus from the surface of your teeth, and root planing refers to smoothing out your teeth’s roots to prevent additional bacteria from forming and therefore speeding up your healing process.
- Periodontal Laser Treatment: We can remove the gum tissue that has become diseased with lasers. You may be interested in this treatment because, unlike traditional treatments, periodontal laser treatment causes less gum shrinkage and less discomfort.
- Periodontal Plastic Surgery: This is a reshaping procedure that is performed to improve the aesthetic appearance of gum tissue, improving gum recession.
- Dental Implants: The dental implant process begins with the extraction of a decayed or damaged tooth followed by an X-ray to determine if there is sufficient jawbone to support a dental implant. If you are indeed a viable candidate, a titanium post will be surgically placed into your jawbone. After this has fused to the bone, the replacement crown or bridge will be secured on this post.
Your Comfort and Your Care
At Northside Dental, we know that finding time for dental appointments can be difficult, especially when you have a busy schedule. We do our best to offer convenient appointment times and make each visit as comfortable and efficient as possible. Whether you're coming in for routine care or a specific dental concern, our team is here to help you get the treatment you need. We want to be a dental office that you and your family can rely on for years to come, and we look forward to welcoming you into our practice. Call Northside Dental at 317-342-9446 to schedule an appointment, or visit us at 15026 Greyhound Ct., Carmel, IN 46032.