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Gum Disease Treatment and Periodontal Care
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that damages the soft tissue of the gums. It typically develops from plaque and tartar buildup, potentially leading to tooth damage, tooth loss, and a range of other complications that can have an effect on both oral and general health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that periodontal disease is one of the biggest threats to dental health, with an estimated 47% of adults over the age of 30 having some form of the disease. From least to most severe, the stages of gum disease include gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.
Fortunately, gum disease can often be treated in virtually all stages of its development. Proper periodontal care can help maintain or restore good oral health, and Dr. Isaías Íñiguez and his team are dedicated to keeping your smile radiant and healthy. Our Los Algodones, Baja California practice can help with gum disease prevention and advanced treatment options.
- Periodontal Disease Causes
- Gum Disease Symptoms
- Stages of Gum Disease
- Gum Disease Treatment Options
- What Does A Deep Cleaning Involve?
- Gum Disease Prevention
What are the Causes of Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease occurs when hardened plaque buildup is left untreated on the teeth and within the gums. When it hardens, plaque turns into tartar, and it can develop in areas of your mouth that are more difficult to reach with standard brushing and flossing routines. Additionally, bacteria in the plaque may lead to an infection. To remove tartar and prevent bacteria buildup, it is best to maintain regular dental exams and professional cleanings.
Certain risk factors may increase the chances of gum disease. Those can include:
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Hormonal changes
- Genetics
- Chronic illnesses
- Certain medications
- Poor oral hygiene
It is important to note that, in addition to its potential for causing major oral health concerns, gum disease has been linked to an increase in risks of serious general health conditions, including stroke, heart disease, dementia, and many others. Treatment for gum disease is vital to help control the condition and prevent it from progressing.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease can affect multiple areas of your mouth. While some may not be visible, there are many signs that can mean you need treatment, such as receding gums and chronic bad breath. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your dentist for preventive dentistry options as soon as possible.
| Affected Area | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Gums | Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums Gums that have pulled away from the teeth; teeth that appear longer than they once did Deep pocket formation between gums and teeth Pus discharge between gums and teeth |
| Teeth | Loose or sensitive teeth Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing Change in bite |
| Other | Consistent bad breath Chronic bad taste when eating |
What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?
Gum disease generally progresses through three main stages:
- Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage, caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Symptoms typically include red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. At this point, the condition may be reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings.
- Periodontitis – If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. In this stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect bacteria and debris. This can lead to bone loss around the teeth and often requires more intensive dental treatment to manage.
- Advanced Periodontitis – In the final stage, the connective tissues and bone that support the teeth are severely damaged. Teeth may become loose, shift, or fall out. More advanced treatment, such as surgery or even tooth extraction, may be required.
What are the Available Gum Disease Treatment Options?
Treatment options will vary depending on the stages of the disease. In the early stages, office visits at least twice a year and routine dental cleanings may suffice. Deeper cleanings (described below), also known as scaling and root planing, can be necessary for more severe cases. Occasionally, antibiotics or laser periodontal therapy might be utilized. Minimally invasive laser treatment can help provide a stronger seal between the gums and teeth and speed up the healing process after gum treatment.
Periodontal surgery, such as pocket reduction and gum grafting, may be best for more severe cases. Pocket reduction surgery involves folding back the gum tissue to remove bacteria and smooth damaged bone surfaces. This approach helps reduce the depth of periodontal pockets and allows the gums to better reattach to healthy bone. Gum grafting can be performed to cover exposed tooth roots caused by gum recession, helping to protect the roots from decay, reduce sensitivity, and improve the appearance of your smile. Both pocket reduction surgery and gum grafting can help restore gum health and support long-term dental stability.
Our team can meet with you to determine which treatment option is right for you.
What Does A Deep Cleaning Involve?
One of the more popular (and often best) ways to address gum disease is a deep dental cleaning. A thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums can help keep your mouth healthy by reaching areas that daily brushing and flossing cannot. This non-surgical treatment entails scraping plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. The area is then smoothed to help prevent bacteria from building up again. Deep cleanings are very routine procedures and have helped many patients slow the progression of gum disease and prevent it from advancing to more severe stages.
Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Gum disease can often be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular dental care. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help remove plaque and bacteria that cause gum issues. It is also important to visit your dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups at least twice a year, or more often if recommended. Avoiding tobacco use, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing health conditions such as diabetes can also reduce your risk. By staying consistent with your oral care routine and addressing dental problems early, you can significantly lower your chances of developing gum disease.
If you have questions about gum disease treatment and prevention, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office.
