Achieve Optimal Gum Health with Periodontal Disease Treatment
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gum tissues and the surrounding structures. At a minimum, it causes gum swelling, redness, and minor bleeding. If left untreated, it spreads beneath the gingival tissues and into the teeth-supporting structures, causing tooth loss.
Do you suspect gum disease? Don’t wait for the infection to worsen. Schedule an appointment today with Arrowhead Dentistry in Glendale, Arizona, for non-invasive periodontal care.
How does gum disease develop?
Gum disease occurs when dental plaque builds up in the mouth. Plaque harbors harmful bacteria that cause gum inflammation and irritation, triggering an inflammatory response. As a result, the body begins to “attack” the periodontal tissues, causing several symptoms, including:
- Red or swollen gums
- Tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily when you brush and floss your teeth
- Sensitive teeth
In some cases, gum disease may be present with no noticeable symptoms. Gum disease is progressive, and without treatment, the gums pull away from the teeth (recede), creating deep periodontal pockets. As these pockets deepen, they house more bacteria and tartar, which attack and damage the bone that supports your teeth. Worse yet, the pathogens that cause gum disease can travel into other body parts through the bloodstream, increasing your risk of diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and other systemic illnesses.
How is gum disease treated?
Your treatment for gum disease depends on the severity of the inflammation. The good news is that most cases of gum disease don’t need surgery. In fact, we can reverse mild gum disease (gingivitis) with standard cleanings and good oral hygiene.
However, if gum disease has advanced, Dr. John Upton may recommend the following treatments.
- Deep teeth cleaning: This two-step procedure uses scaling and root planing (SRP) to remove bacterial toxins and promote gum healing. During scaling, Dr. Upton uses special tools and skills to remove unhealthy deposits from below the gum line to the base of the root surface. After root debridement, the dentist planes (polishes) the root surfaces to encourage the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
- Antibiotic therapy: Periodontal cleaning can be a stand-alone procedure, but the dentist can complement it with topical or oral antibiotics to prevent reinfections.
- Laser periodontal treatment: Laser dentistry is an advanced, minimally invasive approach to treating gum disease. Instead of scalpels or sutures, laser therapy uses high-energy, focused light to remove diseased tissue and unhealthy deposits from deep pockets. It is preferable to traditional surgery because of its precision, minimally invasive approach, and faster healing.
Don’t let gum disease ruin your smile. Our office offers a range of treatment options tailored to your individual needs. Whether you have mild or advanced gum disease, we have a solution for you.
Can I prevent gum disease?
The best way to maintain healthy gums is through preventive care. Follow these simple tips to protect your gums from periodontal disease.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth
- Floss your teeth daily
- Consider an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Quit tobacco products
- Keep immune-suppressing diseases, such as diabetes, under control
Who treats gum disease near me in Glendale, Arizona?
Do you want to maintain healthy gums? You can rely on Arrowhead Dentistry for effective periodontal treatment in Glendale, Arizona. Don’t allow periodontal disease to compromise your oral health. Instead, call (623) 878-6333 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Upton for comprehensive periodontal care.
