Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common dental issue. However, it is one that you should never ignore because it can lead to major health problems. At Creekside Dental, we offer quality periodontal disease treatment in Flint, TX.
What Causes Gum Disease?
When plaque builds up on your teeth, this is when gum disease starts. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth when you eat and drink, especially sugary and starchy foods. If you don’t clean it off regularly, it hardens into tartar. Tartar is a hard substance that makes a shield for bacteria and only your dentist can remove it. This buildup of plaque and bacteria will irritate your gums, leading to inflammation and the first stage of gum disease.
The main culprits of gum disease include:
- Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing enough will help plaque build up and harden into tartar.
- Smoking or using tobacco: Using tobacco can damage your gums and make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
- Genetic factors: Some people are more prone to gum disease due to their genetic makeup, despite maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Certain medications: Drugs that reduce saliva flow, such as antihistamines and antidepressants, can contribute to gum disease.
- Chronic illnesses: Conditions like diabetes can affect your gums, making it more to get infections.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease progresses in stages without proper treatment. At each stage, your symptoms will get worse and worse. The only way to halt the progressions is with treatment from your dentist.
Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage of gum disease. Clear signs of gingivitis include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. A common sign is bleeding gums when brushing and flossing teeth. Gingivitis is reversible with proper care. You must improve your oral hygiene and attend regular dental cleanings.
Periodontitis
If you do not seek the proper treatment, gingivitis advances to periodontitis. Signs of this stage include gums pulling away from teeth and pockets forming that collect bacteria. Bone and tooth loss are likely. Periodontitis requires more intensive treatment to manage.
Advanced Periodontitis
The final stage involves severe bone loss, and loose teeth that can fall out. At this point, you might face serious health risks, such as increased chances of heart disease and stroke. Advanced periodontitis requires aggressive treatment, possibly including surgery.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Flint, TX
Your dentist will determine the kind of treatment you need depending on the stage. Early detection is key. The sooner we diagnose you, the easier the treatment will be to stop the progression. Your dentist may even be able to reverse the disease and restore your oral health.
Deep Cleaning: Scaling and Root Planing
Deep cleaning can reduce gum inflammation and prevent further damage. There are two steps in the scaling and root planing procedure.
Scaling: The dentist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This process can reach areas that regular brushing and flossing cannot, ensuring a thorough clean.
Root Planing is a process that smooths the tooth roots, which helps your gums reattach to your teeth. Smoothing the roots not only removes bacteria but also discourages future buildup.
Other Treatment Options
In addition to deep cleaning, you may need other treatments to help manage the disease. In advanced, severe cases of gum disease, we may even need to refer you for gum surgery.
- Antibiotics: You may need antibiotics to control the infection. This prescription can be in the form of mouth rinses, gels, or oral medications. Antibiotics can be very helpful in reducing bacteria in the mouth.
- Surgery: In advanced cases, you may need surgery to restore oral health. Gum surgery aims to restore the supportive structures of the teeth.
- Restorative Dental Treatments: If you suffer from damage from gum disease, we can repair some of the damage with certain restorative dentistry treatments.
Preventing Gum Disease
Avoiding gum disease is always better than trying to cure it. If you adopt healthy habits, you will lower your risk of getting periodontal disease. A good daily hygiene routine will help you maintain a bright, healthy smile.
- Brush your teeth twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and food debris.
- Floss daily: Dental floss removes plaque and debris from between your teeth and along the gum line.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups and cleanings help catch early signs of gum disease.
- Avoid tobacco products: Tobacco in any form is likely to damage your gums and increase your risk of gum disease.
- Maintain a balanced diet: Eating a healthy diet supports your overall health, including your gums.
Schedule a Consultation for Periodontal Disease Treatment in Flint, TX Today
Finding the right treatment for gum disease is key to restoring your oral health. Contact Creekside Dental in Flint, TX at 903-225-8031 to book your appointment today