At Dental by the Grange, we recognize that healthy gums are critical for maintaining excellent oral health. Our team is committed to supporting patients in achieving and maintaining healthy smiles with periodontal therapy and preventive care. We emphasize proactive measures to prevent any potential issues and quickly detect any concerns during routine visits.
About Gum Disease
Periodontitis, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a condition that arises from bacterial buildup and inflammation along the gum line. If left untreated, it can lead to the deterioration of the bone structure that sustains your teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss or looseness. The inflammation characteristic of gum disease creates a pathway for plaque bacteria to enter the bloodstream, increasing the likelihood of developing various health conditions. Poor oral hygiene practices often cause it, as well as missed dental appointments, advanced age, genetic predisposition, and chronic illnesses. To help prevent periodontitis or improve your chance of successful treatment, brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and get regular dental checkups.
Gum Disease Symptoms
Early-stage gum disease may not always present noticeable symptoms, emphasizing the significance of scheduling regular dental checkups. If you encounter any of the following symptoms, it is vital to make an appointment without delay:
- Tooth and mouth pain
- Painful chewing
- Mouth sores
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth or loss of teeth
- Changes in your bite
- Receding, swollen, and painful gums
- Bleeding during brushing and flossing
- Pus between your teeth and gums
Gum Disease Treatment
In dentistry, scaling and root planing are deep cleaning procedures that effectively remove plaque, bacteria, and acid buildup responsible for gum inflammation. The two-part process involves scaling, which removes tartar from the surface of your teeth, and root planing, which removes tartar from the roots of your teeth below your gum line. Both treatments are performed during the same dental visit to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Periodontal disease typically doesn’t cause pain, which is why you may be diagnosed with periodontitis during a routine check-up. We may also take dental X-rays to identify other potential issues, such as cavities, tooth infections, and bone loss. If you have periodontitis, Dr. Hodzic will discuss treatment options, including tooth scaling and root planing.