Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. For Oluyemi Workman, DDS, and the team at Smile Studio of Buford in Buford, Georgia, prevention is key when it comes to gum disease. They are advocates for early intervention at the first sign of bleeding gums, even if you’re not experiencing pain. To learn more, call Smile Studio of Buford or schedule an appointment online today.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums caused by a buildup of plaque — a sticky film of bacteria. When left untreated, this infection can spread through your gums and jawbone, destroying your tooth-supporting structures. It can lead to swollen gums, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss in some cases.
If you think you have gum disease, watch out for these warning signs:
Some people with gum disease have no symptoms at all, so it’s important to visit Smile Studio of Buford for your bi-annual dental exams.
The two main types of gum disease that Smile Studio of Buford treats are:
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, characterized by gum inflammation. During this stage, your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth and feel tender, but your teeth are still firmly in place.
Fortunately, Smile Studio of Buford can treat gingivitis with routine dental cleanings. They may also recommend reviewing your oral hygiene habits at home. Brushing and flossing twice a day and using a mouth rinse that contains fluoride can significantly reduce the effects of gingivitis.
Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis is not reversible and requires additional treatment. If you have periodontitis, you may have deep pockets of bacteria trapped underneath your gums. This trapped bacteria eventually releases toxins that can destroy your tooth-supporting structures.
Your dentist at Smile Studio of Buford typically treats gum disease with scaling and root planing. This nonsurgical treatment is completed in two steps.
First, your dentist carefully removes the plaque and tartar, which is hardened plaque, both above and below your gum line. Then, they smooth your teeth’s root surfaces. Smoothing helps your gum tissues to heal and reattach to your teeth.
Following scaling and root planing, you’ll want to maintain regular dental visits at Smile Studio of Buford to keep gum disease from returning.
However, if you have an advanced case of gum disease, your provider may suggest treatments such as flap surgery (surgical pocket reduction), tissue grafts, bone grafts, laser gum treatments, or even tooth extraction, depending on your needs.
The team at the Smile Studio of Buford always tries to explore less invasive treatment options before resorting to surgery.
Your teeth may feel painful for a day or so and might feel sensitive for up to a week. Your gums may bleed and feel swollen and tender.
After your treatment, your Smile Studio of Buford provider may suggest a particular oral care routine to help your gums heal. They may also prescribe a pill or mouth rinse to help prevent infection.
Smile Studio of Buford offers a variety of gum disease treatments to eliminate this potentially dangerous infection. Call the office or book online to schedule an appointment today.
