Gum Disease Treatment – Crown Point, IN
Eliminate Infections to Achieve Healthy Gums
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease is a sinister threat that can start out imperceptibly small, but it can cause serious and permanent damage such as tooth loss, gum recession, and jawbone erosion if left untreated. While the early stage of gum disease called gingivitis can usually be reversed with proper oral hygiene, the advanced stage of periodontitis requires the intervention of a qualified dental professional to be resolved. Here’s a brief guide to gum disease and how Dr. Ornelas can address it.
Why Choose Ornelas Family Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Skilled and Compassionate Dental Team
- Prevent Tooth Loss and Other Oral Maladies
- In-House Savings Plan Available
What is Gum Disease?
According to a recent CDC report, more than 47% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, and the percentage grows to 70.1% for seniors. This issue is more common in men than women, those living below the federal poverty level, those without a high school diploma, and current smokers. Other factors that can increase one’s risk of gum disease are genetics, pregnancy, medications that cause dry mouth, and immune-compromising health conditions such as diabetes.
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is caused by a bacterial infection affecting the gums and jawbones that support the teeth. Gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums, is the earliest stage of gum disease, and periodontitis is its advanced and more serious form. While gingivitis can usually be addressed with improved oral hygiene, periodontitis must be managed with regular treatments from a dentist to prevent permanent damage like tooth loss.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease can show itself through a variety of symptoms depending on how far the infection has progressed. Symptoms of gingivitis include persistent bad breath (halitosis), red, dark red, or swollen gums, the gums bleeding when flossed or brushed, tenderness, and gum recession. Periodontitis, on the other hand, can cause symptoms like pain while chewing, permanent teeth coming loose, dental sensitivity, changes to the bite or the way restorations like partial dentures fit, and tooth loss.
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
Dr. Ornelas will thoroughly examine your mouth to determine the severity of your gum infection before determining which treatment is best for you. Based on his findings, he may recommend one of the following options.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a two-part process that can usually be completed in two appointments. The treatment begins with Dr. Ornelas removing all plaque and tartar from the teeth to reduce bacterial populations, and he will go as far down as the pockets of the gums in cases of gum recession. Afterward, he will smooth out the roots of the teeth to remove any bacterial deposits and make it easier for the gum tissue to reattach to the dental structure.
Antibiotic Treatment
Dr. Ornelas may prescribe antibiotic pills to kill large amounts of the harmful oral bacteria that cause gum disease. This can be in addition to scaling and root planing treatments, and it can help prevent symptoms from getting worse.