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Gum Disease Treatment in Charlotte, NC
Protect Your Oral Health with Expert Gum Disease Treatment
Why People Love Ascend Dentistry
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It is typically caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gumline. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to severe inflammation, infection, and even bone loss.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care and professional treatment.
- Periodontitis: A more advanced stage of gum disease, where the infection has spread to the bone and connective tissues. Without treatment, periodontitis can result in tooth loss and may require surgical intervention.
When a dental filling falls out, it's important to visit the dentist promptly to avoid further tooth decay or infection. We use high-quality materials, such as composite cavity fillings, which closely match the color of your natural teeth. Our restorative dentistry solutions focus on maintaining oral health and preventing tooth loss.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, you may be experiencing gum disease:
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Receding gums, making teeth appear longer
- Loose teeth or shifting teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Pus between the teeth and gums
Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing the progression of gum disease. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene habits are the first line of defense.
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Types of Gum Disease Treatments
At Ascend Dentistry, we offer a range of gum disease treatments depending on the severity of your condition:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This deep-cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from reattaching.
- Laser Therapy: Laser treatments target infected gum tissue, promoting healing and reducing bacteria in the gum pockets without the need for traditional surgery.
- Gingival Grafting: In cases of severe gum recession, a gum graft may be needed to restore lost tissue and protect the roots of your teeth.
- Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotics are used to control bacterial infection and inflammation in the gums.
Surgical Treatments: For advanced periodontal disease, flap surgery or bone grafting may be necessary to restore damaged bone and tissue.
Benefits of Gum Disease Treatment
Treating gum disease offers several significant benefits:
- Prevention of Tooth Loss: Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Timely treatment can save your natural teeth.
- Improved Oral Health: Reducing inflammation and controlling infection restores gum health and prevents further damage to the supporting structures of your teeth.
- Enhanced Appearance: Treating gum disease helps reverse gum recession and improves the appearance of your gums and smile.
Reduced Risk of Systemic Diseases: Research shows a strong link between gum disease and other health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Treating gum disease may lower your risk for these serious conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which harbor bacteria that irritate and infect the gum tissue. Other contributing factors include:
- Poor oral hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow bacteria to accumulate, leading to inflammation and infection.
- Smoking or tobacco use: Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off gum infections.
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can make gums more sensitive and prone to infection.
- Chronic conditions: Diseases like diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease by impairing the body’s ability to heal.
Medications: Certain medications, including those that reduce saliva flow, can contribute to gum disease.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Preventing gum disease involves maintaining excellent oral hygiene and adopting healthy habits:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and below the gumline.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
- Quit smoking to reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
- Eat a balanced diet that supports oral health, including foods rich in vitamins A and C, which help keep gum tissue healthy.
Use mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria.
How is gum disease treated?
Gum disease treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease:
- Mild gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene at home.
- Moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis) may require scaling and root planing, laser therapy, or surgical intervention to remove bacteria and repair damaged tissues.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial infection in the gums.
Your dentist will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs to ensure optimal results.
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene. Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, however, the damage to the gums and bone is often irreversible. While treatment can stop the progression and manage symptoms, it may not fully restore lost tissue or bone.
What are the risks of not treating gum disease?
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to:
- Tooth loss: The gums and bone that support the teeth are damaged by the infection, leading to loose or lost teeth.
- Bone loss: Advanced gum disease can cause deterioration of the jawbone, which may require bone grafting or surgical intervention.
Systemic health issues: Untreated gum disease has been linked to serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. The bacteria that cause gum infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to these conditions.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline. This non-surgical treatment is effective in cleaning out periodontal pockets, smoothing the tooth roots, and preventing bacteria from reattaching. The process helps promote healing and reduce inflammation in the gums.