A Healthy Foundation for Your Smile

Gum disease is one of many dental disorders that go untreated because patients overlook the warning signs and symptoms. However, if gum disease is left untreated for a long time, it can lead to various health issues and concerns; therefore, you must get a comprehensive examination. That’s why, at MM Dentistry, we work hard to deliver effective, tailored periodontal treatment in Burke, VA, so you can get rid of your gum disease and preserve your smile.

 

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, often known as periodontitis, is a type of gum disease that is quite serious. The term periodontal means “around the tooth.” Plaque that builds upon and around the teeth, especially under the gum line, causes periodontal disease, or gum disease. The sticky plaque attracts bacteria and hardens into tartar over time. The tartar and bacteria irritate and infect the gums, which could lead to tooth loss when left untreated. Fortunately, we can manage the effects of periodontal disease with proper care and treatment.

 

What Causes Gum Disease?

A variety of factors can cause gum disease, but the most common cause is poor dental hygiene. Those who do not brush and floss regularly will develop plaque, which will lead to gum disease. Furthermore, smoking, a poor diet, piercings, and a family history of gum disease can all contribute to gum disease and cause further harm. However, due to some ligaments being tighter, shorter, or looser than they should be in an ideal mouth, some mouths are prone to gum disease or deterioration. Here at MM Dentistry, we educate patients about dental care and provide excellent diagnostic services to aid in detecting and treating issues like gingivitis, periodontitis, and cavities.

 

What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

While modern dentistry can treat a wide range of oral health concerns, preventative dentistry. It’s crucial to know what healthy gums look and feel like to comprehend periodontal disease symptoms better. Healthy gums are pale pink in color and fit snugly around the teeth. They should also be firm and show no signs of bleeding or discomfort. When it comes to gum disease, there are several warning indicators to look out for, including:

 

  • Swollen, red, or puffy gums
  • Discolored gums
  • Gums that are tender to the touch
  • Persistent bad breath 
  • Receding gums
  • Mild discomfort or throbbing
  • Bleeding when flossing or brushing
  • Puss in between the teeth and gums
  • Loose teeth or loss of teeth
  • Pain when chewing
  • Spaces developing between teeth
  • An uneven or misaligned bite

 

Periodontal Treatment

We can administer periodontal therapy in various ways. They are separated into two categories, surgical and non-surgical. The severity of your condition will determine your recommended level of care, which will necessitate a thorough examination to decide the optimal treatment option.

 

Non-surgical

We can often treat mild gum disease with a solid commitment to proper dental hygiene and the use of an antibiotic mouthwash. However, scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning therapy for moderate-to-advanced gum disease, may be required.

 

  • Scaling and Root Planing: If you have gum disease, we’ll probably suggest scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning. The primary line of protection against periodontal disease is deep cleanings. We will remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria between your gums and teeth using specialized dental equipment. We will also smooth your teeth’s roots to help avoid bacterial development. The gums can then heal and return to their original, healthy state once the buildup has been removed.

 

Surgical

In some cases, more invasive procedures may be required to treat and eliminate gum disease completely. These gum treatments frequently entail surgery and are required when non-surgical approaches fail.

 

  • Pocket Reduction: Tartar buildup can cause pockets to form between the teeth and gums, which can later become inflamed and filled with bacteria. We make small incisions along the gum line to expose the root, allowing for more effective scaling and planing.

 

  • Bone Grafting: When periodontal disease has progressed to the point that bone loss has occurred around the impacted tooth root, we recommend bone grafting. It will help you avoid tooth loss, maintain your teeth in place, and encourage natural bone regrowth.

 

Paving Your Path to Health Teeth

Contact MM Dentistry immediately if you have painful, swollen gums that bleed easily or if your teeth are loose and sensitive. To find the source of the problem, we’ll do a thorough examination of your mouth. In extreme circumstances, we may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist specializing in treating gum disease. Our highly skilled team will devise a gum treatment strategy that is unique to you. Allowing gum disease to progress is not a wise idea. Make an appointment today.