Periodontal Treatment / Gum Disease
Caused by the accumulation of tartar and bacteria, periodontal disease, also called gum disease, can result in a number of adverse conditions, including serious risks to your overall health.
Regular screenings and proper dental hygiene can help to protect your mouth from developing gum disease and the associated health concerns; however, if you have already been diagnosed with gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease, or if you are concerned you may have developed this condition, our experienced periodontist at Arun Narang & Associates offer a wide range of gum disease therapies to restore the health, function, and beauty of your smile.
For more information about periodontal and gum disease, or to schedule an appointment with one of our dental professionals, please contact us today.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Bacteria inside the mouth produce plaque that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing as well as regular dental cleanings, the plaque may begin to build up around the gumline and soft tissues around the teeth, causing significant damage over time. Advanced gum disease can not only lead to tooth loss – it has also been linked to heart disease, stroke, and other health & medical conditions. The most common form and earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Fortunately, when this condition is caught early there are many effective treatments. We carefully screen every patient for signs of periodontal disease, but if you’re experiencing any of the following, you should schedule an appointment for a check-up:
- Irritated, red, and/or swollen gums
- Gum sensitivity
- Chronic bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Gums separating from the teeth
- Changes in bite alignment, teeth spacing, or position
- Loose teeth
Healthy oral hygiene practices are an essential part of safeguarding your mouth from periodontal disease; however, there are several other causes that may contribute to the development of this condition – even if you are diligent about brushing and flossing. Some of these factors include:
- Tobacco use
- Genetic predisposition
- Certain medications
- Grinding and clenching your teeth
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Anxiety
- Poor nutrition
Gum Disease Therapy
Treatment for mild to moderate gum disease can be performed in-office by our skilled dental professionals. When you arrive for your initial examination, we will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of periodontal disease. If discovered, we will develop a treatment plan that addresses your unique anatomic needs. The most common procedure for gingivitis and mild to moderate gum disease is called “scaling and root planing.” When plaque becomes tartar, also called calculus, only a dental professional can remove the buildup.
The procedure typically involves removing the bacteria with traditional dental instruments, an ultrasonic device, or dental laser. Planing, also called root planing, may be utilized in conjunction with scaling or as a stand-alone procedure. This technique smoothes the surface of the roots to allow the gum to re-adhere and prevent additional bacterial buildup.
Other available treatments may include topical or oral antibiotics, laser dentistry, or surgical procedures for advanced cases of periodontal disease. In that case, our experienced periodontist will determine which method offers the best opportunity for success during your initial consultation.
If you have additional questions about gum disease or periodontal treatments, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists, please contact our office today.
