Treatment For Periodontal Gum Disease Can Protect Your Entire Mouth
What is Gum Disease?
To understand why the treatment for periodontal gum disease is so important, it is essential to understand what gum disease is and how it affects the entire mouth. The gums are the primary support structure for the teeth. Just as important, the bones beneath the gum line serve as an anchor for holding the teeth in place. When either of these systems is compromised, the health of your teeth is at tremendous risk. Gingivitis and periodontal disease begins when plaque and bacteria accumulate between the teeth and in gum pockets. Within the pockets, harmful microorganisms eat away at the surfaces of teeth and deepen the gum pockets, making it even easier for bacteria to propagate its effects.
The deepening of gum pockets and subsequent gum recession creates the added problem of exposing more of the tooth’s surface to decay and deteriorating the tooth’s support system. In advanced periodontal disease, pathogens can invade the underlying bone and cause destruction. When this happens, the teeth loosen and, if left untreated, eventually fall out.
Gum Disease Treatments
The treatment for periodontal gum disease is relatively straightforward. When identified early, many of the damaging effects of gum disease can be stopped and, in some cases, reversed. One of the most common treatments prescribed by Dr. Harrell is scaling and root planing. This procedure consists of removing tartar and calculus from the teeth, both above and below the gum line. Thanks to anesthetic agents, the process is very comfortable. Furthermore, the use of high-tech ultrasonic scalers makes it easier and more effective to remove tartar and other harmful agents from tooth surfaces. Invisible ultrasonic vibrations help loosen tartar and calculus, making their removal easier and more pleasant for the patient.
The goal of this treatment for periodontal gum disease is to rid the teeth of substances that are causing the gum recession and pocket deepening. Once the teeth are clean, the gums can reattach to tooth surfaces, closing gum pockets and eliminating the spaces where bacteria thrive.
If your gums are red, swollen or bleed easily, call or email Adult Dentistry of Ballantyne today to schedule a dental exam. Dr. Harrell can offer treatment solutions to safely and effectively restore your gum health and protect your teeth. If you are considering cosmetic work, contact us about a free, no-obligation smile consultation with Dr. Harrell. During your consultation a complimentary digital smile preview (an $85 value) will be created to show how you will look when your treatment is complete.