10
Nov
THE TYPES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE TREATMENT
Every dentist warns their patients about the hazards of gum disease. Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is a condition that needs to be addressed as soon as possible to ensure a positive outcome. Dr. David Lamothe of Smyrna Dental is a dedicated dental professional ready and willing to help patients with achieving a healthier smile. When conditions such as periodontal disease surface, early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Treatment of conditions such as periodontal disease will depend heavily on the stage of the condition. If caught in the earlier stage called gingivitis, the condition can be reversed. This is done with a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria. Sometimes antibiotics may be applied or prescribed to patients to further control the infection. The signs of gingivitis are persistent bad breath, redness and swelling of the gum tissue, and bleeding while brushing and flossing. If any of these symptoms arise, it is essential patients visit us for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
If periodontal disease is left untreated and continues to progress, it will advance to periodontitis. This is a more severe stage at which complex treatments may need to be considered. This includes treatments called scaling and root planing. This is more invasive than just a simple cleaning done at the dental office. It involves cleaning the surfaces of the tooth even underneath the gum tissues to remove all bacteria. Patients who have reached this stage will never be able to cure their periodontal disease but can work closely with their dentist to control it and maintain their oral health after diagnosis. Because periodontitis is incurable, our dental team stresses the importance of everyday oral hygiene to all our patients to avoid the condition in the first place!
At Smyrna Dental, we help families in achieving better oral health and wellness, as well as enhance their smiles with cosmetic and restorative solutions. Contact the practice today by calling (678) 374-3764 and speaking with our front office staff about scheduling an appointment.