Periodontal Treatment in Dunn, NC
Periodontal disease is a prevalent concern, with about 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women aged 30 years or older experiencing some degree of periodontitis. If left untreated, this common condition can worsen over time, potentially leading to severe dental issues. However, it’s reassuring to know that effective treatment options are available even in advanced stages. At J. Michael Williams, DDS, we are committed to providing the highest-quality periodontal treatment to maintain your oral health.
Our comprehensive approach to gum disease ensures that your gums and teeth receive the best possible care, helping to prevent and manage periodontal disease effectively. Whether you are experiencing early signs or more advanced symptoms, our dedicated team is here to support you.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. The primary cause is plaque buildup, which contains bacteria that damage your teeth, gums, and jaw. Other contributing factors include poor oral hygiene, genetics, smoking, certain medications, hormonal changes, and systemic diseases like diabetes. Symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums: Healthy gums are pink and firm. When gums become red and sensitive, it usually means they are inflamed. This inflammation occurs as the body reacts to bacterial plaque buildup around the gum line.
- Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing: While occasional bleeding might occur with vigorous brushing, frequent bleeding is also a sign of gum inflammation. Many people mistakenly believe some bleeding is normal, but it’s actually a warning sign pointing to the early stage of gum disease.
- Receding gums: When the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, it exposes more of the tooth or its root. The teeth appear longer, and small pockets form between the teeth and gums where bacteria can collect.
- Loose or separating teeth: As periodontal disease progresses, it can destroy the supporting bone around teeth. This bone loss can cause teeth to become loose or shift position, potentially creating gaps between teeth.
- Persistent bad breath: Also known as halitosis, bad breath is often caused by bacteria that gather in the pockets formed by gum disease. The odor may persist even after brushing or using mouthwash.
It’s important to note that periodontal disease can progress without obvious symptoms. In its early stages, you may brush aside or fail to recognize the warning signs. Regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection and treatment. However, if you notice any of the symptoms listed above, we encourage you to call our office and schedule an appointment. Timely intervention can make a significant difference in your oral health.
Your Periodontal Treatment Options
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that, without proper treatment, advances from one stage to the next.
Gingivitis
The earliest stage, gingivitis, is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. We treat gingivitis with a professional dental cleaning and by helping you improve your home care routine. We recommend better brushing and flossing habits and using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating your gums.
Periodontitis
Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. At this stage, the infection causes bone loss, significant gum recession, deeper pockets around the teeth, and potentially loose teeth. To treat periodontitis, we perform advanced scaling and root planing, which are deep cleaning procedures. This cleaning technique removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and below the gum line, reducing inflammation and restoring gum health.
Sometimes, surgical interventions like flap surgery are necessary to clean the roots of teeth and reduce periodontal pockets. Unfortunately, periodontitis causes irreversible damage to the gums and bones. Therefore, frequent dental visits for professional cleaning and monitoring are essential to manage the condition and prevent further damage.
Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the final stage of gum disease, where the damage becomes even more severe. At this stage, the pockets around the teeth become deeper, gum recession becomes more pronounced, and teeth may become loose or even fall out. The infection in these deep pockets triggers the body’s immune response, which starts breaking down the bone and connective tissue that holds teeth in place.
We perform various surgical procedures, such as flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery) and bone grafts, to treat advanced periodontitis. If the disease has completely compromised the tooth and it cannot be saved, we offer dental implants or mini dental implants as permanent replacements. These implants function as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Dental implants are made from titanium (the same durable material used for hip and joint replacements) and are designed to integrate with your jawbone. With proper care, they last many years.
Experience Compassionate Periodontal Treatment
At J. Michael Williams, DDS, we treat patients like family. Our commitment to compassionate care goes beyond just restoring smiles; we aim to improve lives. If you’re noticing any symptoms of periodontal disease or just want to schedule a thorough dental checkup, give us a call. We’re here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Let’s work together to keep your gums and teeth in great shape. Schedule an appointment with us today and experience the difference that caring, personalized dental care can make!
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is never too late to treat gum disease. However, the effectiveness and outcomes of treatment can vary depending on how advanced the disease has become. Early intervention is best: the earlier gum disease is detected and treated, the better the outcomes and the less invasive the treatments. Even in advanced cases, treatment can significantly improve oral health and general health, preventing further damage to your mouth and body. The key is to start treatment as soon as possible and maintain good oral hygiene practices.
Yes, children can develop gum disease, although it is less common and typically less severe than in adults. In children, the symptoms of gum disease are like those in adults. Common symptoms include red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, and persistent bad breath.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and scheduling dental checkups every six months are crucial for preventing gum disease in children. Routine visits help us prevent the condition from becoming more serious and allow us to instruct your child on proper oral hygiene measures.
Yes, pregnant women are more likely to develop gum disease. Hormonal changes, especially increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, make gums more sensitive to bacterial plaque. These changes can lead to increased blood flow to the gums, causing swelling and tenderness. Additionally, pregnant women may produce less saliva, which can lead to increased plaque buildup.
To prevent gum disease during pregnancy, it’s important to maintain diligent oral care by brushing and flossing regularly. Additionally, attending regular dental checkups helps us monitor your gum health and catch any issues early.