Protect Your Smile with Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious condition that affects more than 50 percent of American adults. This progressive infection is caused by bacteria in dental plaque that accumulates on the surface of teeth. When left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to long-term complications such as gum recession, bone atrophy, and tooth loss. It has also been linked to stroke and heart disease. To address gum disease, Drs. Martin Farnswoth and Derek Farnsworth offer comprehensive treatment at their Mesa, AZ, dental office. Whether you need a deep cleaning for minor inflammation or restorative surgery, our doctors can lay the groundwork for a healthier smile.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease is an infection that impacts the tissue surrounding teeth. The mildest form of periodontal disease, also known as gingivitis, is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Gingivitis is the only stage of gum disease that is reversible with proper care. As gum disease advances into periodontitis, the connective tissue and bone supporting the teeth can begin to deteriorate, causing teeth to become loose.
There are several factors that can increase your risk for gum disease:
- Smoking
- Hormone changes
- Diabetes
- Medication
- Genetics
A good at-home hygiene regimen and regular visits to your dentist can stave off a dental infection. We recommend a professional cleaning and exam every six months. However, if you have gum disease, more frequent visits may be necessary.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
If you have gum disease, you may experience:
- Inflamed, red, or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Difficulty chewing
- Sensitivity
- Pockets around the teeth
- Teeth that appear longer
- Persistent bad breath
As the health of your gums can impact your overall well-being, it is important to seek timely treatment if you develop symptoms.
Effective Treatments
Periodontal treatment aims to control and prevent the spread of infection. We can recommend the best treatment for you based on the extent of your infection.
Whether you need a deep cleaning for minor inflammation or restorative surgery, our doctors can lay the groundwork for a healthier smile.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical treatment method. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line using a special dental instrument. Your doctor can then smooth the tooth roots to discourage bacteria from further accumulating. He may also apply an antibiotic to encourage healing.
Surgery
If you have advanced gum disease, you may need surgical treatment. Flap surgery enables us to gain better access to the tartar deposits beneath the gum line. If you have suffered gum tissue loss due to periodontal disease, we may recommend tissue grafting to cover the exposed tooth roots. There are several types of grafts that can be used during treatment, including your own tissue, donor tissue, or synthetic materials.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are concerned about the health of your gums, you are not alone. At Las Sendas Dental Health, we offer both non-surgical gum disease treatment and gum flap surgery to treat all stages of periodontal disease. Schedule a consultation at (480) 283-5854 or contact us online to determine whether you could benefit from treatment.
