Like cavities, gum disease is a common dental dysfunction that affects people of all ages. If you are suffering from gum disease, you should not put off getting treatment. Your general dentist has the knowledge and training to relieve the symptoms of this disease. In some cases, the dentist might be able to reverse its effects. You can have peace of mind to know that there are methods available to restore your health and prevent more serious problems.
Also known as periodontitis, this disease can damage the soft tissue in the mouth. It is characterized by red, inflamed gums and bleeding from this area while brushing or eating. Without proper treatment, periodontitis can cause bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss. Failing to brush and floss regularly will lead to this disease. This causes a buildup of bacteria between teeth and along the gumline. Plaque and tartar can form, destroying the gums and teeth.
As the first signs of gum disease appear, the general dentist may teach proper brushing and flossing techniques to the patient. The individual may not be flossing and brushing enough, or at all. Or, the dentist may need to correct the way the patient is doing these things. Often, doing these habits correctly can stop the disease from progressing.
This is one of the most common ways to combat gum disease. The dentist or hygienist can perform this treatment, either during a routine checkup or at a different appointment. Using a tool, the dentist or hygienist scrapes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth or below the gums. Some offices may use an ultrasonic device or a laser. This treatment can remove bacteria from the teeth and gums, promoting good health. It will reduce the risk of the disease becoming more serious.
This process often accompanies scaling. The dentist smooths the surfaces of the roots. This minimizes the chances of bacteria growing and causing gum disease. It is also an effective way to stop tooth decay. This treatment can speed up the healing process for people who have severe periodontitis.
In some situations, the dentist may recommend using antibiotics to treat gum disease. Topical or oral medications can kill the bacteria that cause plaque and tartar buildup. This method is also a good way to keep infections from developing in the gums or teeth. The dentist may give multiple doses to the patient, depending on how serious the periodontitis is.
The most severe cases of gum disease may require flap surgery. In this treatment, the dentist makes incisions in the gums, pulls them back, and exposes the roots. This allows the dentist to do more effective scaling. It can also let the dentist examine the bones and repair any bone loss.
There can be serious consequences to having gum disease. The good news is that there is hope that you can recover from these issues. Your dentist can offer these treatments to restore your oral health. Make an appointment so you can discuss your options.
Request an appointment here: https://www.tanqueverdedental.com or call Oro Valley Family Dentistry at (520) 833-5261 for an appointment in our Tucson office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Tucson, AZ.
Dental implants are a bit of a mystery for those individuals who have never received more than a cavity filling. If you are scheduled to receive dental implants, make sure to understand the truth about the procedure and implants to set yourself up for success.Unfortunately, sometimes patients who need implants do not proceed with the…
A family dentist treats patients of all ages but focuses on treating and maintaining the oral health of children and teenagers. Having a family dentist means that your entire family can see the same dentist and get to know them better. Often, the dental office can schedule appointments for everyone in the family in one…
For patients who have missing teeth, dental implants are a restorative solution that can help in many cases. This treatment has grown increasingly popular in recent years and is often preferred over other options such as traditional dentures.Many patients are unsure of what implants are and how the procedure works. The following explores some of…
For individuals who need to restore or replace damaged or missing teeth, dental implants are lasting, high-quality restoration options. The process can be lengthy from start to finish, but this dental appliance gives patients results worth waiting for. However, without the right aftercare, an infection can form and cause extreme discomfort to a patient. Proper…