Periodontal Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontitis, better known as gum disease, is a preventable infection that can damage and even destroy teeth to the point of tooth loss. The good news is that it is highly treatable and can be detected by your dentist in its earliest stages.
At Valley Dental Turlock, Dr. Ahmadi takes a gentle, proactive approach to gum health. Catching gum disease early protects not only your smile but your overall well-being, since untreated periodontal disease has been linked to serious health concerns including an increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease begins with the buildup of plaque and tartar from oral bacteria. Warning signs include bleeding gums, receding gums, swollen gums, and, in advanced cases, loosening or loss of teeth. It progresses through three stages of increasing severity.
In the first stage, gingivitis, inflammation causes the pockets the gums form around the teeth to expand. Your dentist measures this space to gauge the damage; depths greater than three millimeters leave room for complications. When gingivitis becomes periodontitis, prolonged exposure to plaque and tartar widens that space further, bone loss begins, and the gums bleed easily. In advanced periodontitis, bone loss can be severe and bacteria reach the socket and roots, loosening the tooth from the bone, immediate treatment is necessary to prevent tooth loss.
Gum Disease Treatment
In the early stage, treatment can be as simple as having your dental cleanings more frequently so your dentist can remove tartar before it causes serious damage. As gum disease progresses, deeper cleanings called dental scaling are used to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline. With the use of anesthetic, this should feel no different than a typical cleaning.
In some cases a tray similar to a whitening tray delivers medication deeper under the gums. In more advanced cases, additional periodontal treatment may be necessary to address the damage caused by bacteria and protect the gums, and Dr. Ahmadi will recommend the appropriate next steps for your situation. Whatever stage you are in, early action gives you the best chance of reversing or controlling the disease.
Know the Warning Signs
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Gum pockets deeper than three millimeters
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gum disease, and how do I know if I have it?
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the gums caused by plaque and bacteria buildup. Early signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. If you notice these symptoms, schedule a visit right away.
Is gum disease reversible?
Yes, when caught early in the gingivitis stage, gum disease can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene at home. More advanced stages may require deeper cleaning treatments to prevent further damage.
What is deep cleaning or scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment used to clean below the gumline and smooth the roots of your teeth. It removes harmful bacteria and allows the gums to heal and re-attach to the teeth.
Can untreated gum disease lead to tooth loss?
Unfortunately, yes. Left untreated, gum disease can destroy the tissue and bone that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. That is why early diagnosis and treatment are so important.
Where can I get gum disease treatment near me in Turlock?
Valley Dental Turlock provides personalized gum disease treatment for patients in Turlock and neighboring areas like Denair, Keyes, and Ceres. Request an appointment to restore your gum health.
Creating Beautiful Smiles
For more information about our dental services and how we can help you improve your oral health and your smile, please reach out. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice!