Periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, is a very common problem. If left untreated, this condition can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. There are many treatment options available to help get your oral health back on track. At Dr. Sanjay Kalra’s Multispeciality Dental Clinic, we help patients with the causes of periodontal disease, its symptoms, and the various treatment options available. We will also provide tips on how to keep your gums healthy and prevent gum disease from occurring in the first place.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also commonly referred to as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition in the gums and surrounding tissues of your teeth. It is caused by bacteria that build up in plaque on your teeth, leading to infection and inflammation.
Periodontal disease can be a serious condition and is one of the most common causes of adult tooth loss. It has been linked to other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and respiratory disease. Therefore, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease and seek treatment if necessary.
Symptoms:
The most common symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- A change in the fit of dentures or partial dentures
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek treatment right away. Our dentist will be able to diagnose and treat your periodontal disease. Treatment can involve deep cleaning, prescription medications, antibiotics or surgery.
Treatments We offer to our Patient:
1. Scaling and Root Planing:
This process helps to remove the plaque and tartar build up around the teeth beneath the gum line, which often can’t be reached by brushing alone.
2. Gum Grafting:
In this procedure, healthy gum tissue is transferred from another part of your mouth or a donor source to cover exposed roots. This helps protect the root from further damage and decay.
3. Pocket Reduction Surgery:
This procedure helps to reduce the spaces between your teeth and gums, which can be caused by periodontal disease.
4. Soft Tissue Grafts:
Soft tissue grafts help to cover exposed roots or add volume to thinning gums.
5. Osseous (Bone) Surgery:
This procedure is used to reshape the bone around teeth, which can be caused by periodontal disease.
6. Crown Lengthening:
This procedure helps reshape tissue and bone around a tooth to make it look longer or reduce sensitivity.
7. Dental Implants:
We place dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots made of metal and titanium, to replace missing teeth.
8. Antibiotic Therapy:
We use antibiotics, either in a pill form or as an oral rinse, to kill bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
9. Laser Treatment:
This technique uses lasers to reduce inflammation around the gums and remove plaque and tartar build-up.
10. Periodontal Maintenance:
After initial treatment, periodontists recommend several follow-up visits to ensure the health of gums. During these appointments, any necessary scaling and root planing, as well as other treatments, can be performed to reduce the risk of further damage from periodontal disease.
Taking good care of your oral health is the best way to prevent or reduce the risk of periodontal disease and other dental problems. Regular brushing, flossing and professional cleanings can help keep your mouth healthy.
If you are concerned about periodontal disease, make sure to discuss your concerns with our dentist. With early diagnosis and treatment, you can help keep your mouth healthy and reduce the risk of serious complications from periodontal disease.