What Is Periodontal Disease and How Is It Treated?
Periodontal or gum disease is an infection and inflammation of the gums and tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. The progressive condition is usually painless in its earlier stages, often going undetected. Your trusted team at Kraklow Quality Dentistry will evaluate your gum health during your routine dental exams. If we uncover signs of periodontal disease, we will recommend prompt treatment to restore your gum health.
What Are the Causes of Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. When plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is not removed by regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings, it irritates the gums and causes inflammation. Other risk factors include the natural aging process, family history, smoking, crooked teeth that are hard to clean, and hormonal changes during pregnancy.
What Are Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease?
The following are some signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily, especially when you brush or floss
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth that won’t go away
- Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
- New spaces developing between the teeth
- Loose teeth or even tooth loss
- Persistent tooth sensitivity
- Painful biting or chewing
- Changes in how the teeth fit together when you bite
- Changes in the way partial dentures fit in your mouth
Early Treatment Matters
If you experience any warning signs of periodontal disease, make sure to contact Kraklow Quality Dentistry immediately for a consultation. The sooner periodontal disease is diagnosed and treated, the more positive the outcomes.
During the earliest stages, periodontal disease is called gingivitis. At this point, the condition is fully reversible with the help of professional dental cleaning and daily brushing and flossing at home. Left untreated, gingivitis will continue to progress to a more serious form of periodontal disease known as periodontitis. That can lead to the loss of tissue and bone supporting the teeth, resulting in loose teeth and, eventually, tooth loss.
Periodontal disease not only impacts your oral health but can also affect your overall health. Studies show a link between periodontal disease and some systemic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
Treating periodontal disease starts with a non-surgical “deep cleaning,” known as scaling and root planing. Our dental hygienist will scale your teeth, removing plaque and tartar from above and below your gum line and thoroughly cleaning the pockets between the teeth. The next step is root planing, which involves removing plaque and tartar deposits and smoothing out the rough area on the tooth roots to promote gum tissue healing and reattachment.
Periodontal Maintenance
In most cases, Dr. Kraklow will recommend periodontal maintenance care every three to four months after treatment. Each visit will include a professional dental cleaning and an evaluation of your gum health to ensure the gum infection is stable and not progressing. You must maintain exceptional oral hygiene care at home, including daily brushing and flossing, to keep your gum disease in check.
Periodontal Care Near Me
Visit Kraklow Quality Dentistry in Milwaukee, WI, to learn more about the treatment and management of gum disease. Our team is dedicated to maintaining healthy teeth and confident smiles. Call our office at 414-427-8565 to schedule your appointment today!