Periodontal Disease Treatment
Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth? Do you have mouth sores?
Patients with these symptoms may be at risk of developing gum disease. Common signs of periodontitis or gum disease include bleeding, red, swollen, or sore gums as well as halitosis (bad breath), receding gums, shifting teeth, or mouth sores.
Although there is no single factor contributing to gum disease, common causes can include smoking or tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, stress, teeth grinding, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Dr. Paul Cavanaugh is a Colorado Springs, CO dentist that treats patients with gum disease.
PERIODONTAL THERAPY: WHAT TO EXPECT
GUM DISEASE TREATMENT
The recommended treatment for gum disease is dependent upon the stage and severity of disease as well as any other factors impacting your dental health. Dr. Cavanaugh takes a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease to ensure a stable and lasting result.
From personalized oral hygiene recommendations to referrals to a specialist in advanced cases, treatment is designed to restore gum health and avoid the permanent effects of this progressive disease.
GINGIVITIS
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease that is typically characterized by red, swollen irritated gums. It is typically caused by bacteria in the plaque that builds up around your gums. If you’re bleeding or sore gums due to gingivitis, thorough cleaning to remove plaque can treat the condition.
Antibacterial washes may be recommended and consistent dental hygiene will prevent future buildup. These treatments are usually successful and will help avoid further infection and damage.
PERIODONTITIS
When left untreated, gingivitis will eventually develop into periodontitis. This is an advanced stage of gum disease that is typically characterized by complex symptoms including receding gums and loose teeth. The bacteria in the plaque actually cause the gums to become infected which will result in damage to the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth.
If you have periodontitis, more advanced treatment like scaling or root planning is necessary to clean the deep pockets of the gums.