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 disease 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
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 to have a heart attack, stroke, heart disease, or other heart issues due to the compromised bloodstream.
What happens if you leave gum disease untreated?
If left untreated gum disease may result in tooth loss, gum damage, and heart problems. It is important to treat gum disease so that it does to spread or develop into further, higher risk stages.
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.