Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease is a serious matter that should be treated by a professional. The dentists at Smyrna Dental are adamant about making sure patients have healthy, beautiful smiles. They help patients understand the negative effect that gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) can have on one’s teeth, gums, and bones.

Gum disease begins as gingivitis, which causes the gums to bleed and become inflamed. This is the first sign of periodontal disease, and patients are encouraged to seek dental assistance as soon as they notice gingivitis developing. This can reduce the risk of the disease progressing further. If it does, it begins to result in the loss of gum tissue, bone, and even teeth. The advanced stages of periodontal disease can cause the loss of natural teeth and the disintegration of bone.

The team at Smyrna Dental offers several different gum disease treatments in their perio program. In the earlier stages of gum disease, a simple professional cleaning can help. This removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the mouth that can result in gingivitis. The inflammation will be reduced and the mouth can return to a healthier state. Patients can maintain the results with proper oral hygiene. In the later stages of gum disease, patients may benefit from scaling and root planing. This is when the teeth are thoroughly cleaned of tartar and plaque from the crowns of the teeth to the roots. Patients may also be prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection. Subgingival irrigation may be recommended in some instances.

Smyrna Dental cares for both healthy and unhealthy smiles. We understand that receiving dental care can be stressful for some, and use local anesthetics and offer sedation for those who need it. We offer gentle, comfortable dental care in our practice with state-of-the-art facilities, and are committed to the overall health and well-being of our patients’ smiles.

Call us today at (678) 374-3764 to schedule an appointment for a full examination to ensure the health of your smile, and create a positive relationship with our dental staff. You will be glad that you forged a friendship with our practice and will enjoy the benefit of a truly advantageous patient-dentist relationship.

Gum Disease

Video Transcript

The 3 stages of gum disease are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by toxins irritating the gum line as a result of plaque buildup. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis includes swelling, sensitivity, and bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can be easily reversed through professional care and good home oral hygiene. Periodontitis is categorized by irreversible bone loss that results from untreated gingivitis. The gums may begin to form a pocket below the gum line which traps food and plaque. Dental treatment and home care can help prevent from further damage, but at this stage, the results are not reversible. Advanced periodontitis is when the fibers and bones supporting the teeth destroyed. This may cause teeth to shift or loosen. Teeth may have to be removed depending on how advanced the disease has become and if treatments are not effective. You can begin by preventing gum disease with good oral health. Pick up a brochure or ask your dentist today.