Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment

Periodontal (gum) disease is a common but serious bacterial infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to numerous systemic health problems. Our practice offers comprehensive periodontal therapy to halt disease progression, restore gum health, and protect your overall wellbeing.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease develops in stages:

Gingivitis (Early Stage)

• Red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
• Often painless, making it easy to overlook
• Completely reversible with proper treatment and home care

Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

• Gums pull away from teeth, forming pockets that collect bacteria
• Bone and connective tissue begin to break down
• Teeth may become loose as supporting structures are damaged
• Requires more intensive treatment to control

The primary cause is bacterial plaque that builds up on teeth, but risk factors include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
• Diabetes and other systemic diseases
• Certain medications
• Genetic susceptibility
• Stress
• Poor nutrition

Our Comprehensive Treatment Approach

Treatment depends on the stage and severity of your periodontal disease. Depending on your situation, we may refer you to a trusted periodontal specialist in the area.

For Gingivitis:

• Professional dental cleaning: Removes plaque and tartar buildup
• Improved home care: Instruction on effective brushing and flossing techniques
• More frequent cleanings: May recommend 3-4 month intervals rather than 6 months

For Mild to Moderate Periodontitis:

• Scaling and root planing: Often called "deep cleaning," this non-surgical procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths tooth roots to help gums reattach
• Local antibiotic therapy: Medication placed directly into periodontal pockets to target infection
• Oral antibiotics: Sometimes prescribed to control bacterial infection
• Antimicrobial mouth rinses: Help reduce bacteria between dental visits

For Advanced Periodontitis:

• Periodontal surgery: May include flap surgery to reduce pocket depth or bone and tissue grafts to regenerate lost structures
• Laser therapy: Advanced treatment that precisely targets diseased tissue while preserving healthy tissue
• Ongoing maintenance therapy: Specialized cleaning program to maintain results
• Coordinated care: May involve referral to a periodontist (gum specialist) for complex cases

Periodontal Maintenance Program

After initial periodontal therapy, ongoing maintenance is crucial for long-term success:

• More frequent cleaning appointments: Typically every 3-4 months rather than the standard 6 months
• Specialized cleaning procedures: Focuses on areas below the gumline
• Regular monitoring: Measures pocket depths to track healing and stability
• Targeted home care recommendations: Customized based on your specific needs
• Early intervention: Addresses any signs of recurrence before damage occurs

This maintenance program is essential—research shows that without consistent follow-up care, periodontal disease often recurs within months of initial treatment.

The Connection Between Periodontal Health and Overall Health

Research has established strong links between periodontal disease and numerous systemic conditions:

• Heart disease: Bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to arterial plaque
• Diabetes: Periodontal disease can make blood sugar more difficult to control, and diabetes increases risk for gum disease
• Respiratory conditions: Bacteria from the mouth can be aspirated into the lungs
• Pregnancy complications: Including premature birth and low birth weight
• Stroke: Associated with increased risk
• Alzheimer's disease: Emerging research suggests possible connections

By treating periodontal disease, we're not just saving your teeth—we're potentially contributing to your overall health and wellbeing.

Home Care for Periodontal Patients

Successful periodontal treatment requires excellent home care between professional visits:

• Brush at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Clean between teeth daily using floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers
• Use antimicrobial mouth rinses if recommended
• Consider powered toothbrushes which are often more effective at removing plaque
• Address risk factors like smoking, which significantly impairs healing
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support gum health

We provide detailed instructions and product recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

When to Seek Treatment

If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule an evaluation promptly:

• Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Loose or separating teeth
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Pus between teeth and gums

Early intervention offers the best chance for successful treatment with less invasive procedures.

Protecting your periodontal health is essential for maintaining your teeth for a lifetime and supporting your overall health. If you're experiencing symptoms of gum disease or haven't had a comprehensive periodontal evaluation recently, contact our office to schedule an appointment.