
If you notice your gums appear swollen or redder than usual, it is possible you have periodontitis. In most cases, treating gum disease early can prevent a serious issue, but many people ignore the initial signs and find the problem only gets worse. At Shining Smiles Family Dentistry in Marietta, we help many patients with periodontal care and ensure they get the treatment they need.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums. Most cases of periodontitis are caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth and below the gum line. Primarily composed of bacteria, plaque is a sticky film that can be removed with good oral hygiene practices. However, if the plaque is not removed, it will likely cause an infection that harms the soft gum tissue and could even damage the bone surrounding the teeth.
The most effective gum disease treatments target the early signs of periodontitis before they become worse. The initial stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and can be identified by gum redness and swelling. A consultation with your dentist can detect the issue and start treatment, and you will also receive suggestions on reducing the possibility of gum disease.
When the condition progresses to the stage of periodontal disease, patients have a more severe problem. Unfortunately, if the gums separate from the teeth and the jawbone is weakened, patients may find their teeth become loose or even fall out.
Can Periodontal Disease Be Cured?
Sadly, when periodontitis has gone untreated, the supporting structures around the teeth will deteriorate. It isn’t possible to cure periodontitis when the condition has reached this stage, and your dentist will need to use restorative procedures to manage the issue. On a more positive note, there are various gum disease treatments that can ensure you have a healthy mouth, strong bite and natural smile.
How to Treat Periodontitis
If you notice signs of gingivitis, your dentist will normally recommend periodic dental cleanings and oral exams, dental scaling, brushing twice per day, flossing and using mouthwash. However, more serious cases of periodontal disease may require further steps, which can include the following.
- Root planing to smooth the surface of the tooth root.
- Medication to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Pocket reduction to tighten the gum around the teeth.
- Bone grafting, when gum disease has destroyed part of the bone around the teeth.
- Dental implants to create an artificial tooth root for the application of a crown.
These treatments have helped many patients after experiencing periodontitis. However, it’s better to avoid gum disease in the first place by making oral hygiene a priority, and seeing your dentist regularly.
Effective Periodontal Care in Marietta
Shining Smiles Family Dentistry helps patients with gum disease and other dental treatments. If you notice the signs of periodontitis, contact us for a consultation in Marietta. For assistance, call (770) 420-8550 or request an appointment now.