The Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease develops in stages, starting with gingivitis and progressing to periodontitis if left unchecked. Here’s a closer look at the stages of gum disease:
Gingivitis: In the earliest stage of gum disease, your gums may appear red and swollen and bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing. Plaque buildup causes gingivitis, a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on teeth. This stage of gum disease is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional treatment.
Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. In this more severe stage of gum disease, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria, but the byproducts of this battle destroy the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. Teeth may eventually become loose and need removal.
Advanced Periodontitis: In the most advanced stage of gum disease, the gums, bone, and connective tissue have been extensively damaged. Teeth may become loose or fall out, and chewing can become painful.
Effective Gum Disease Treatment Options
The team at Colonial Heights Dental Group offers a range of effective treatment options to address gum disease, depending on the stage and your individual needs:
Professional Dental Cleanings:
Regular professional cleanings by our skilled hygienists are essential for removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) that brushing and flossing alone can’t remove. These cleanings help control gingivitis and prevent it from advancing to periodontitis.
Scaling and Root Planing:
A “deep cleaning” involves thoroughly cleaning the periodontal pockets around your teeth and removing all plaque and tartar deposits. We then smooth, or “plane,” the tooth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth.
Antibiotic Therapy:
For more advanced gum disease, we may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to help control the bacterial infection in your gums. This can be an essential part of your treatment plan.
Gum Surgery:
In some cases, we may recommend surgical procedures to access deep pockets, remove infected tissue, and reshape the gum line. These procedures can help prevent tooth loss and restore your oral health.
Supportive Periodontal Maintenance:
Once we have controlled your gum disease, you’ll need regular periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3-4 months to keep the infection from recurring. Our team will work closely with you to develop a tailored maintenance plan.
The Importance of Early Treatment
Treating gum disease in its earliest stages is crucial, as it only worsens over time. Gingivitis is easily reversed with improved oral hygiene and professional care, but periodontitis causes permanent damage that can’t be undone.
Leaving gum disease untreated puts your oral and overall health at serious risk. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of other health problems, including:
– Heart disease and stroke
– Diabetes complications
– Premature and low-birthweight babies
– Alzheimer’s disease
That’s why it’s so important to see a dentist right away if you notice any signs of gum disease. Prompt treatment can stop the progression of the disease and restore your oral health.
Gum Disease Treatment in Kingsport
Every patient’s needs are unique when treating gum disease. That’s why we thoroughly evaluate your oral health and develop a personalized treatment plan just for you.
Dr. Susan Burks Creech and her team use the latest techniques and technologies to provide comfortable, effective gum disease treatment. We’ll work closely with you every step of the way to ensure you get the care you need to regain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards healthier gums and a brighter future.