Gum Disease Treatment – DFW Metroplex
Do you have sensitive or bleeding gums? Learn about the hidden perils of gum disease and what your dentist can do to help keep you healthy.
Though teeth are crucial to oral health, gums are just as important — these tissues cause many issues when they get inflamed or infected. Thankfully, Bear Creek Family Dentistry offers gum disease treatment to help patients throughout the DFW Metroplex. In essence, gum disease is an infection of your gums — the soft mouth tissues around your teeth. The condition often stems from plaque buildup, usually due to poor eating, bad oral care, or other factors. Gum disease has two stages of progression: gingivitis and periodontitis. The first refers to mild gum inflammation, which is often irritating but not severe. Meanwhile, the second stage — periodontitis — can cause lasting damage if left untreated. Early intervention makes a significant difference in outcomes, so don't wait to reach out if you've noticed any changes in your gums.
Gum disease has two stages: gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and periodontitis (full-blown infection attacking jaw and gum tissue).
Gingivitis can be reversed with good oral care; periodontitis can only be managed.
Gingivitis symptoms include chronic bad breath, gum tenderness, swollen gums, red bleeding gums, and gum recession.
Periodontitis symptoms include shift in bite, changes in restoration fit, tooth sensitivity, chewing pain, loose permanent teeth, and permanent tooth loss.
Treatment begins with a thorough oral exam to check overall severity of gum disease.
Initial treatment includes recommending more frequent professional cleanings and improved at-home hygiene.
Advanced treatment includes scaling and root planing (deep cleaning).
Scaling is the systematic removal of plaque and tartar buildup that leads to gum disease.
Root planing is the smoothing of tooth roots to prevent future buildup.
Scaling and root planing is performed over the course of two appointments depending on severity.
Mouth is adequately numbed before scaling and root planing begins.
After scaling and root planing, patients should avoid eating for at least two hours to prevent accidentally biting tongue or cheeks.
For several days after scaling and root planing, patients should rinse with saltwater every few hours.
Patients should avoid anything hot or spicy and avoid tobacco products or smoking after scaling and root planing.
Patients should refrain from intense physical activity for at least the first day or two after scaling and root planing.