Periodontics is a specialty of dentistry that primarily focuses on the prevention and treatment of gum disease. It is one of the general dentistry services Dr. Alla Brown provides to the public.
Lanier Family & Cosmetic Dentistry provides gum treatment for patients at our Buford, Georgia dentist office.
About Gum Disease
Gum disease is a widespread problem that affects about 75% of the American adult population. Studies show that the key to healthy gums is through a daily routine of brushing and flossing along with routine visits to the dentist. These visits include a teeth cleaning and an exam of your entire mouth.
The leading cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease. Periodontal treatment is a conservative approach that will preserve the natural tooth. Routine visits to the dentist allow your dentist to identify problems in their earliest stages and prevent future damage.
What Causes Gum Disease?
While poor oral hygiene is the main cause of gum disease, there are a number of other factors that may cause it, including:
- Age and genetic predisposition
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes in women
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Stress
- Certain medications
- Grinding or clenching of teeth
- Poor nutrition, obesity, or diseases such as diabetes
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Often called a “silent disease”, many people are affected by gum disease without having pain or symptoms. Common signs of gum disease may include:
- Red gums
- Swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Pus buildup between teeth and gums
- Teeth that are suddenly loose
- Sores in your mouth lining
- Halitosis symptoms
- Bleeding gums during teeth brushing and flossing
- Changes in your bite pattern
Periodontal Therapy Treatments
Treatment for gum disease ranges depending on your condition and how far it has progressed. Ideally, periodontal treatment is preventive. However, it is common for patients to have some signs of gum disease that progresses. In these cases, we may perform scaling & root planing to remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets that form in your gums because of gum disease.
Unfortunately, in severe cases, you may need a tooth extraction if gum disease has advanced enough. Most tooth extractions can be performed in our office.
Of course, tooth loss is a major concern with gum disease. It is important to know that gum disease is also a contributing factor in a number of serious health concerns such as heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy-related problems.
Gum Disease FAQs
We know gum health is a big part of keeping your mouth happy and healthy. Many of our patients have questions about gum disease, and we’re here to help answer them. Here, we cover our patients’ most common questions about gum problems. Our goal is to give you information to help you care for your gums better.
What kind of results can I expect after scaling and root planning?
After your scaling and root planing procedure, expect some soreness while your gums heal. Your gums should begin healing and reattaching themselves to the newly cleaned tooth surface. Your dentist will request that you visit for a follow-up to assess your results and determine if further treatment is needed.
Does gum disease go away on its own?
No. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you can take steps to prevent the condition from getting worse, but it will not go away without help from a dentist or periodontist. If diagnosed in the early stages, we can rid you of gum disease in a single dental visit.
How can I prevent gum disease from returning?
The best way to prevent gum disease from returning is to keep an excellent oral health routine! Brush your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush, floss more often, and avoid smoking. Your dentist can give you more personalized recommendations at your next dental exam.
Can gum disease cause heart problems?
Gum disease can spread into a patient’s bloodstream and cause heart issues. Patients with gum disease are at an increased risk of having a heart attack, stroke, heart disease, or other heart issues due to the compromised bloodstream.
What happens if you leave gum disease untreated?
Leaving gum disease untreated can have severe consequences for your oral and overall health. As the disease continues to progress, it can lead to significant gum damage, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth. When the gums recede, this creates pockets where bacteria can thrive. This bacteria will infect also infect the bones, resulting in bone loss, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth loss.
Also, the bacteria with gum disease can enter the bloodstream. When this happens, you are at risk of developing systemic health issues. Research suggests a link between untreated gum disease and an increased risk of heart problems, as well as other serious conditions.
Is periodontal disease painful?
Periodontal disease often doesn’t cause pain, especially in the early stages. This makes it hard to spot without a dentist. As the disease gets worse, you might feel some discomfort or pain when eating or brushing. However, by the time you feel pain, the disease may have already caused serious damage to your gums and teeth.
Can periodontal disease come back after treatment?
Yes, gum disease can come back after treatment. Even with successful therapy, you’re still at risk for the disease to return. That’s why it’s important to follow your dentist’s care instructions and go to regular check-ups. Good oral hygiene at home and professional cleanings can help prevent the disease from coming back.
Can my dentist cure periodontal disease?
Your dentist can’t fully cure periodontal disease, but they can help manage it. With proper treatment, like deep cleaning and good home care, your dentist can stop the disease from getting worse. They can also fix some damage it’s caused. Regular check-ups and following your dentist’s advice are key to keeping your gums healthy.
Schedule Your Visit With Lanier Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Prevention is the best way to combat gum disease. Contact Lanier Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Buford, Georgia to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brown or Dr. Newberry and establish a strong oral health routine.