From diagnosis to treatment and prevention, Briarwood Dental is your expert in periodontal disease
What happens if you have periodontal disease
At Briarwood Dental We Specialize in Treating and Preventing Periodontal Disease
If you’re have symptoms or questions about Periodontal Disease our certified dental team can assist you!
Periodontal Disease: Protect Your Gums and Smile
At Briarwood Dental we understand the importance of healthy gums for maintaining a vibrant smile and overall oral health. Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) is a common but serious condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of other health issues, including heart disease and diabetes.
We’re here to help you understand periodontal disease and how it can be treated to restore and protect your smile.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar, which contain bacteria. The condition can range from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more advanced stages that affect the bone and tissues that support your teeth (periodontitis).
Stages of Periodontal Disease:
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is usually characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. The good news is that gingivitis is often reversible with proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. At this stage, the infection spreads below the gum line, causing deeper pockets to form between your teeth and gums. This can result in tooth mobility and loss if not properly managed.
- Advanced Periodontitis: In the most severe cases, the supporting bone and tissues around your teeth are severely damaged, leading to tooth loss and other serious health concerns.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Recognizing the symptoms of gum disease early can help prevent more severe damage. Common signs of periodontal disease include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing)
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible for a thorough examination and treatment plan.
Causes and Risk Factors of Periodontal Disease
Several factors contribute to the development of periodontal disease, including:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing can allow plaque to build up, eventually turning into tartar, which leads to gum disease.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco is a major risk factor for developing gum disease.
- Genetics: Some people are more genetically predisposed to developing gum disease, even with good oral hygiene.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, as the condition can affect the body’s ability to fight infections.
- Medications: Certain medications can affect oral health, such as those that reduce saliva production, making it harder to protect your teeth and gums.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes can increase the risk of gum disease.
Preventing and Treating Periodontal Disease
The good news is that with early detection, periodontal disease is treatable, and its progression can be halted. Preventing and managing periodontal disease involves both professional treatment and at-home care.
The good news is that with early detection, periodontal disease is treatable, and its progression can be halted. Preventing and managing periodontal disease involves both professional treatment and at-home care.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease:
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): For mild to moderate gum disease, scaling and root planing is often the first step. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smooths the roots of the teeth to help your gums reattach to the tooth surface.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, we may recommend antibiotic treatment to help control infection and promote healing. These may be in the form of topical gels or oral medications.
- Surgical Treatments: For more advanced periodontal disease, surgical options may be necessary to repair damaged tissues and restore the health of your gums. This could include flap surgery, bone grafting, or tissue regeneration to replace lost bone and gum tissue.
- Maintenance and Ongoing Care: After treatment, regular periodontal maintenance appointments will be necessary to monitor your gum health and prevent further damage. We’ll work with you to create a personalized plan that includes professional cleanings and proper home care techniques to keep your gums healthy.
At-Home Care:
- Proper Brushing and Flossing: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily can help prevent plaque buildup, the leading cause of gum disease.
- Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria, particularly for those at higher risk.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular dental visits are essential for detecting early signs of gum disease, even before symptoms become apparent.
Why Treating Periodontal Disease is Important
Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and even affect your overall health. The inflammation caused by gum disease has been linked to systemic conditions, such as:
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Heart Disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease by contributing to systemic inflammation.
- Diabetes: Gum disease can make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
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Respiratory Issues: Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections.
Treating gum disease helps protect not only your smile but your overall health.
