Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an oral health condition affecting many people. However, its severity can range from mild to severe. Patients seeking gum disease treatment in the early stages are more likely to regain their oral health and minimize the damage it can cause. Horizon Family Dental Care offers comprehensive periodontal disease treatment in Baltimore, MD, for patients suffering from this condition.
The Importance of Healthy Gum Tissue
When you think of optimal oral health, you may think that it entails brushing your teeth and visiting your dentist. However, taking care of your gums is also vital.
Gingivae, or gum tissue, line the entire oral cavity and cover the jawbone and tooth roots. They form a protective barrier to prevent bacteria from attacking the underlying bone, root surfaces, and other supportive structures. Healthy gums are firm and pink and fit snugly around the teeth. Gum tissue also supports your teeth.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease is a condition that affects the gum tissues that protect and surround the teeth. The soft tissues become inflamed and infected because plaque accumulates on the teeth and gums, especially along the gum line.
Plaque is a sticky film loaded with bacteria that constantly forms in your mouth. If you do not remove the plaque daily by brushing and flossing, the bacteria will attack the gums.
Periodontal disease also has several risk factors that can influence the development and severity of the condition. Understanding these factors can help you prevent or manage your gum disease. The main risk factors are:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking or using any kind of tobacco
- Genetics
- Age (older people have a higher risk of gum disease)
- Diet lacking in essential nutrients
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause
- Chronic stress
- Diabetes
- Certain medications
- Systemic diseases that affect the immune system
Stages of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is a progressive disease. When your dentist diagnoses you, immediate treatment is necessary. Gum disease will develop into a more progressive form of periodontal disease. Permanent damage is possible, including tooth loss.
The stages of periodontal disease include:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. Most people may not even realize they have it because the symptoms are mild. Gingivitis is reversible and simply requires proper home oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings.
Signs of it include red, swollen, and bleed-easy gums. Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing is usually a sign of gingivitis.
Mild Periodontitis
If left untreated, gingivitis will develop into periodontitis. Here, the inflammation will extend deeper, below the gum line. The bacteria will begin to form pockets between the teeth and gums.
Moderate Periodontitis
Again, without treatment, the disease will advance. The periodontal pockets will grow larger and fill with bacteria from plaque buildup. The bacteria will cause serious harm to the underlying tooth roots and bone structure.
Advanced Periodontitis
Severe periodontitis is the most advanced stage of gum disease. It affects the teeth, gums, and bone. By this stage, most patients will have some level of gum and bone loss.
The bone loss causes the teeth to begin to shift and move, which can result in tooth loss. The infection has spread to the surrounding tissues and bone and caused permanent damage.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis) or bad taste in mouth
- Receding gums, making teeth appear longer
- Formation of pockets between the teeth and gums
- Changes in bite alignment
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way dentures fit
Gum Disease Treatment in Baltimore, MD
Periodontal disease treatment in Baltimore, MD, is part of our restorative dentistry menu. Your treatment will depend on the stage of gum disease you are suffering from. The goal is to remove the infection and reduce the side effects. Your dentist will try to preserve as much of your natural teeth and gum tissues as possible.
- Professional Dental Cleaning: A deep teeth cleaning by a trained dental hygienist is called scaling and root planing. Deep cleanings will remove all the excess plaque and tartar from your teeth and below the gum line. Scaling and root planing eliminates bacteria and toxins that contribute to gum disease.
- Medications: Your dentist may need to prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial agents to control the bacterial infection. You can take them orally or apply them directly to the infected areas.
- Surgical Procedures: In more advanced cases, you may require a surgical procedure or grafting. This may include flap surgery, pocket reduction surgery, bone graft, or gum tissue graft. If you require any of these, we will help you with the appropriate referral.
Schedule an Appointment for Periodontal Disease Treatment in Baltimore, MD
Gum disease can destroy your oral health and cost you a lot of money to treat. The best way to avoid it is to visit your dentist regularly and brush and floss daily. If you have gum disease, please schedule an appointment at Horizon Family Dental Care today. We offer periodontal disease treatment in Baltimore, MD.