Gum disease can be very serious and is often overlooked by patients, especially in its beginning stages. At The Studio at Fenton Family Dental, we offer the latest therapies and treatments to combat gum disease and keep your smile healthy. Left untreated, gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, so it’s important to make sure you’re taking the necessary steps to prevent and treat the condition. Below, we’ll discuss the different gum disease therapies available at our Clinton, MD office, and how they can help you maintain your oral health.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the soft tissue of the mouth caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. This destructive condition causes redness and swelling of the gums, as well as bad breath and bleeding during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gum disease can progress—leading to the loss of teeth, loss of jaw bone density, and other serious health issues; this may include heart and respiratory diseases.
Stages & Symptoms
Gum disease is a progressive condition that leads to further health deterioration as it advances. It is important to be aware of the various stages and symptoms so that you can begin treatment as soon as possible. Below, you will find a description of the three stages of gum disease, as well as their corresponding symptoms:
- Gingivitis. Symptoms include red, swollen, and tender gums, as well as bleeding during brushing or flossing. At this stage, the disease remains reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care.
- Periodontitis. Symptoms include deterioration of the gums, where they may start to pull away and recede from the teeth. Additionally, gum pockets may develop, which are spaces between the gums and teeth. Plaque and tartar will use these pockets as growth sites for spreading the disease even further—leading to irreversible bone damage.
- Advanced Periodontitis. Symptoms include severe bone and tissue loss, resulting in loosening or loss of teeth, and persistent bad breath. At this stage, the damage from gum disease may require surgery to repair.
Gum Disease Treatment
At The Studio at Fenton Family Dental, we offer a variety of treatments for gum disease. Depending on the severity of your particular case, our experienced team of dental professionals will recommend the best therapy for your needs.
- Non-Surgical Treatment: These treatments are designed to reduce the symptoms of gum disease, as well as prevent any further damage from occurring. Common non-surgical treatments include deep cleanings, in which a dental hygienist will use scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup and smooth the roots of the teeth. In addition, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce infection and inflammation.
- Surgical Treatment: In severe cases of gum disease, surgery may be necessary to restore the gums and bone around the teeth. Common surgical treatments include gingival flap surgery, in which the gum is lifted back to gain access to plaque and tartar buildup, and bone grafting, in which healthy bone is added to areas with damaged or missing tissue.
The Studio at Fenton Family Dental is here to help you maintain your oral health and keep your smile looking its best. If you think you may be suffering from gum disease, contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the treatments available. Our team of experienced dental professionals is here to help you every step of the way.
Prevention Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Gums
The best way to maintain healthy gums is by practicing good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day, as well as using mouthwash to help reduce the growth of bacteria. Additionally, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, which will help to prevent gum disease as well as detect any problems early on.
At The Studio at Fenton Family Dental, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. We look forward to serving you!
