Periodontal Therapy

Garland, Texas

Do you have red, swollen gums that sometimes bleed when you brush your teeth? That could be a sign of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. The progressive condition is more common than most people realize, with devastating impacts on your oral health. Our team at Buckingham Family Dental prioritizes the prevention and management of gum disease to help our valued patients enjoy long-term healthy smiles.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a serious inflammation and infection of the gum tissues and structures that support the teeth. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Gum disease usually starts with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds on your teeth and gum line. If not removed, plaque can harden to tartar, which can irritate your gum tissues and lead to gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.

Gingivitis is characterized by red and puffy gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing your teeth. If not treated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a devastating form of gum disease. As the condition advances, the gums start pulling away from the teeth, forming pockets that provide bacteria with an ideal environment to flourish. The infection and inflammation can destroy the bone and tissues that hold the teeth in place, leading to loose teeth and, eventually, tooth loss.

Symptoms of periodontitis include persistent bad breath, receding gums, tooth pain, and loose teeth. Patients may also notice that their teeth no longer fit together the way they did. If you see any signs of gum disease, make sure to contact Buckingham Family Dental for an evaluation. The earlier gum disease is detected, the better the treatment outcomes.

What Are the Health Impacts of Gum Disease?

Aside from impacting your oral health, gum disease has been linked to many serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, pregnancy complications, and more. Maintaining healthy gums can contribute to your health and quality of life!

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

Periodontal therapy starts with a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar (the hard, crusty buildup that brushing can't clean off) from your teeth and from below the gum line. Root planing cleans and smooths the tooth roots, helping your gums reattach to your teeth. We might also prescribe special mouth rinses or even oral antibiotics to help fight the infection.

What Is Periodontal Maintenance?

After treating your gum disease, you will need periodontal maintenance appointments every 3-4 months. These visits include evaluating your gum health, measuring your gum pockets' depth, and performing thorough dental cleanings. We will intervene, if needed, to prevent the devastating effects of gum disease on your oral health.

An essential component of a successful periodontal maintenance plan is maintaining meticulous oral hygiene practices. These include regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Our team at Buckingham Family Dental is happy to provide tips on home oral care to keep your gums as healthy as possible.