A comprehensive periodontal therapy treatment plan is designed to address various stages of gum disease. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums that can lead to inflammation and tooth and bone loss if left untreated. Bleeding gums can be quickly addressed with this common restorative dental treatment.
When plaque is not properly removed from the teeth and gums, the bacteria begins to break down the gum tissue, which can have an adverse effect on your dental and overall health. Studies have suggested that bacteria from gum disease can contribute to the development or progression of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other severe health conditions.
Taking a proactive approach to your gum health can not only reduce your risk of gum disease, but it can also help you maintain a healthy, functional smile.
Your Fayetteville dentist at Greenway Dental Care works with patients on an individual basis to diagnose and treat all stages of gum disease. We recommend patients visit our dental office at least twice a year for routine gum disease screenings.
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Preventing Gum Disease
Keeping your gums healthy is an essential part of achieving optimal oral health. Establishing and practicing a proper oral hygiene routine and scheduling regular visits to our Fayetteville dentist office can help improve your gum health.
In addition, adding these key tips can help reduce your risk of gum disease and improve your gum health:
- Brush your teeth after meals
- Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from the teeth
- Use mouthwash to help reduce plaque build-up
- Know your risk for gum disease
- Quit smoking and tobacco use
- Visit our dental office for routine screenings and professional dental cleanings
Common Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a sometimes silent, progressive disease that many patients don’t realize they have until they visit the dentist. In the early stages of gum disease, also known as gingivitis, you may notice swollen, red, or bleeding gums. Many patients overlook these symptoms which allow gingivitis to progress into periodontitis. During periodontitis, the gums recede from the teeth, and patients are at a higher risk of experiencing tooth and bone loss.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of gum disease may help you get the care you need. If you notice any of these changes in your dental health, be sure to visit our office.
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding Gums
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
During your routine dental exam, Dr. Keech can assess your risk for gum disease and build a comprehensive treatment plan based on your needs.
Treatment For Gum Disease in Fayetteville, AR
At Greenway Dental Care your dental health is important to our team. To determine if you have gum disease, we will perform a periodontal evaluation. During your assessment, we will examine the health and condition of the teeth and gums to identify any signs of gum disease.
With the results from your examination, we will create a personalized treatment plan to improve your gum health and reduce your risk of reinfection. Depending on the stage and severity of your gum disease, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments for gum disease.
- Scaling & Root Planing: An intensive deep cleaning of the areas above and below the gum line.
- Professional dental cleaning: A routine cleaning of the teeth to remove plaque and tartar build-up.
- Antibacterial Rinse: Helps kill gum disease-causing bacteria.
- Periodontal Surgery: For advanced stages of gum disease, patients may need to undergo gum surgery to remove infected gum tissue, reduce the periodontal pocket size, restore gum tissue, or supplement bone loss.
Periodontal surgery is necessary when non-surgical options are not enough to repair damaged gums or bone loss. In many cases, patients can address gum disease with non-surgical treatment. Depending on your needs, Greenway Dental Care may refer you to a local periodontist for further care.
Gum Disease FAQ
What happens if I do not seek treatment for gum disease?
Gum disease is a progressive disease. Without treatment, it will get worse and can cause harm to your teeth, bones, gums and overall health. Without treatment, you risk tooth loss and bone loss in addition to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, pregnancy complications and even some types of cancers.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
This is a complicated question since no two people experience pain at the same level. Generally speaking, however, it should not cause pain. You may experience some pressure and minor discomfort though. The benefits are worth it considering the bacteria filled plaque can progress and cause serious harm to your health. Treating periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease, has a greater chance of being painful.
I am pregnant and my gums bleed. Does this mean I have gum disease?
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to gum inflammation. Most likely, your gums will only bleed during pregnancy. However, we do recommend taking your oral health seriously during pregnancy. Even if your gums are bleeding a little bit, still continue brushing and flossing daily to avoid gum disease which can cause problems during pregnancy. If your bleeding becomes concerning, please schedule an appointment for a check up.