Periodontal Disease Treatment (Gum Disease)
At Lakeview Family Dentists, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy gums for overall oral health. Our gum disease treatment is designed to effectively manage and prevent the progression of periodontal disease, ensuring your smile stays bright and healthy.
Gum Disease Treatment in Dracut, MA
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection in the gums that can deteriorate soft tissue and, without treatment, may even destroy the bone supporting your teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss. This condition begins as mild gum inflammation called gingivitis, which is marked by symptoms like bleeding gums. If not addressed, gingivitis can progress to more severe forms such as periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease, characterized by mild redness, swelling, and occasional light bleeding of the gums. Without proper intervention, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, a more severe infection that can cause irreversible damage to the structural integrity of your mouth.
Treatment options vary based on the severity of the disease and often include deep cleaning techniques such as scaling and root planing to eliminate plaque and tartar beneath the gum line. In advanced stages, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair and regenerate supportive tissues. Preventive measures like regular dental check-ups, excellent oral hygiene, and smoking cessation are vital in managing periodontal disease. Effective management of this condition is crucial for preserving oral health, and early intervention can prevent further complications.
Lakeview Family Dentists provides treatment for gum disease in Dracut, MA. Schedule an appointment online or contact our office today.
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What are the signs of periodontal disease or gum disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, can present a range of signs and symptoms, which vary depending on the severity of the condition. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent progression and more serious health complications. Here are some of the key signs of periodontal disease:
- Gum Redness and Swelling: Healthy gums that turn red, swollen, or tender.
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed during brushing, flossing, or spontaneously.
- Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
- Receding Gums: Gums pulling away from teeth, making teeth appear longer.
- Sensitive Teeth: Increased sensitivity due to exposed tooth roots.
- Loose Teeth or Changes in Alignment: Teeth that loosen or shift, affecting the bite.
- Pus Between Teeth and Gums: Indicates an infection.
- Pain When Chewing: Discomfort or pain from inflamed and damaged gum tissue.
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How does a dentist identify if gum disease is present?
At Lakeview Family Dentists in Dracut, MA, our dental professionals utilize a comprehensive approach to determine if a patient has gum disease. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Medical and Dental History Review: We review the patient’s medical and dental history to identify any risk factors or underlying conditions that may contribute to gum disease.
- Visual Examination: Our dentists thoroughly examine the gums for any signs of inflammation such as redness, swelling, and bleeding. We also look for visible plaque and tartar buildup, which are common gum disease indicators.
- Gum Pocket Measurement: One of the most critical steps is measuring the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth using a special instrument called a periodontal probe. Healthy gums typically have pocket depths of 1-3 mm. Depths greater than 4 mm may indicate gum disease.=
- Dental X-rays: We use dental X-rays to look for bone loss around the teeth, which is a sign of advanced gum disease. X-rays help us see the condition of the bone beneath the gum line, which cannot be viewed through a visual examination alone.
- Additional Diagnostic Tests: If necessary, we may perform additional tests, such as checking for bacterial infections or assessing the movement of teeth, which can help diagnose periodontal disease.
By combining these diagnostic techniques, the team at Lakeview Family Dentists can accurately identify the presence of gum disease and its severity, enabling us to provide effective, tailored treatment plans for our patients.
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How is periodontal disease or gum disease treated?
The treatment of periodontal disease, or gum disease, varies depending on the severity and progression of the disease. Here is a general overview of the treatment options:
- Professional Cleaning: Regular professional cleanings can be effective in the early stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis. These cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that a regular toothbrush cannot reach.
- Scaling and Root Planing: This is a deep-cleaning, non-surgical procedure where 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). Smoothing the rough spots removes bacteria and provides a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth. This procedure may require more than one visit and might include local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
- Medications: In conjunction with scaling and root planing, dentists may place antibiotic gels in the periodontal pockets or prescribe antibiotic mouth rinses or oral antibiotics to help control the infection.
In all cases, maintaining good oral hygiene after treatment is crucial for therapy success. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups are essential to keep periodontal disease under control.
What are you waiting for?
At Lakeview Family Dentists, we believe in providing the best dental care, at the most affordable prices. Make an appointment, see more about our office, or explore all of the dental services we provide, using the links below.
