Over time, plaque and tartar buildup can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth creating pockets that accumulate bacteria. As gum disease progresses, these pockets deepen, and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. The infection can destroy tissue and the bone that holds the tooth in place. However, if the disease is caught early, treatment can be less invasive and more successful.
At David Kirkpatrick DDS, treatment for periodontal disease typically begins with a thorough professional cleaning and scaling procedure. Regular cleanings in our office and proper home care can help prevent further problems and help patients keep their smiles healthy. In some cases, more invasive treatments like flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts may be recommended to restore the smile's health.
The Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Some common symptoms indicate that you suffer from gum disease or another oral health issue. These include having swollen, red gums that may bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. You may also have persistent bad breath or a taste in your mouth that won’t go away no matter what you do. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you must schedule an appointment with our dentist as soon as possible so that they can examine you and determine if you have an oral health issue.
Some of the most common causes of periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene and smoking cigarettes. However, many other factors can contribute to the condition as well. Some of these factors include genetics, hormonal changes, certain medications, and illnesses like diabetes. If you have a family history of gum disease, you are at an increased risk of developing it, so you must practice good oral care habits to help prevent it from developing in the first place.
Gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues if left untreated. It can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke and increase your risk for diabetes.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
The treatment of periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s age and overall health. Mild to moderate cases of gum inflammation may be treatable by professional cleaning and changes in a patient’s oral hygiene routine. More severe cases of gum disease may require deep cleanings, surgery, or teeth removal. Daily maintenance is essential to control the disease and prevent tooth loss and other complications for those whose gum disease has progressed to periodontitis.
Prevention of periodontal disease is possible with regular visits to the dentist and good oral hygiene habits at home. For the best dental care, contact David Kirkpatrick DDS at (513) 868-3600 or visit us at 870 NW Washington Blvd Suite A, Hamilton, OH 45013.
