Periodontal Treatment
Keeping Your Smile Healthy!
Keeping up with periodontal health is the best way to prevent more serious issues from arising. Learn more about how we can help!
Periodontal disease, gum disease, and periodontitis are all phrases that we use to describe an infection in the gingiva (gums) and bone around your teeth. Since we rely on healthy structures to keep your tooth roots intact, it’s essential that signs of periodontitis are identified as early as possible.
Gingivitis is the earliest sign that there’s a problem. Minor redness, swelling, or mild bleeding may be common. But if not treated with daily home care and professional cleanings, that infection can spread down into your connective tissues, creating permanent structural damage.
Some of the most common symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Gum recession
- “Long teeth”
- Tooth mobility (loose tooth/movement)
- Sore teeth when you chew/bite
- Spaces between teeth
- Deep pockets under your gums
- Visible bone loss on X-rays
- Heavy tartar buildup
- Bad breath
- Bleeding when you brush and floss
- Swollen, red gums
Please keep in mind that if you smoke, vape, or use tobacco products, you may not see the same symptoms as someone who doesn’t. Your tissues could look “healthy” due to the lack of bleeding or swelling, even if the disease is present.
Our hygienist will recommend the treatment that’s appropriate for the general condition of your teeth and the level of infection. Gingivitis is the mildest stage of gum disease and is often controlled with a comprehensive cleaning followed by more frequent dental cleanings.
As gum disease advances, it becomes periodontitis. In this case, we recommend scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that involves clearing away bacteria and smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth to remove rough spots where bacteria can collect.
Your hygienist will irrigate the affected area with an antibacterial rinse to wash away any remaining bacteria and give you a fresh start. We typically recommend that you schedule your next appointment in a few weeks so we can monitor the situation. More frequent cleanings in the future may be needed to stay a step ahead of the disease.
Gum disease is very common, but the good news is that it’s also highly preventable! By establishing proper at-home oral hygiene practices and keeping up with routine dental exams and cleanings, you may never have to worry about developing gum disease!
Our team at Rayside Dental would love to meet you so we can help you get the high-quality oral health care you need for a healthy smile. Please call our office and a friendly member of our team will be happy to help you schedule an appointment.
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Questions about Periodontal Treatment?
If you have any questions about periodontal treatment or are interested in a consultation—contact us today.