Periodontal Treatment in Indian Trail, NC

Periodontal disease is often caused by poor oral hygiene, but it can also be caused by genetics, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Patients who develop gum disease may notice that their gums are darker, more sensitive, swollen, or bleed easily and often. It’s important to schedule regular dental cleanings and exams to prevent gum disease or diagnose and treat it if it develops. To schedule your next visit with an experienced dentist in Indian Trail, contact our office today!

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What are the stages of periodontal disease?

Gum disease always begins as gingivitis, which is easy to reverse with an enhanced oral care routine and regular dental cleanings. The next three stages are slight, moderate, and advanced periodontal disease. Gingivitis becomes periodontal disease once the harmful bacteria have reached the jawbone and have begun to destroy the bone, and it is not totally reversible at this point. The more advanced periodontal disease becomes, the more inflamed and sensitive the gums become, and the patient becomes more at risk for tooth and bone loss.

How is periodontal disease treated?

Patients are often advised to schedule three or four dental visits for deep cleanings and exams per year. During these visits, scaling and root planing services are performed. Scaling involves removing the tartar that has built up in the gum pockets and cleaning them out. Then, root planing is done to smooth out the tooth roots and help the gums reattach to the teeth. These appointments can be divided up into more visits depending on the severity of the infection so the visit won’t last too long, and the patient will experience less soreness afterward.

What happens if periodontal disease is not treated?

It’s incredibly important to manage periodontal disease to prevent it from getting worse and causing other issues. Oral health is connected to our overall health, and untreated periodontal disease can actually increase a patients’ risk for developing serious problems like heart disease. The infection will also spread deeper into the jaw over time, which will lead to gum and bone deterioration, and one or more teeth may become loose and fall out. No matter what stage of gum disease you have, seeking professional help is always better than avoiding the problem.

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