We want you to have a healthy smile, which is why we utilize Perio and root planing treatments for our patients with gum disease. You deserve a beautiful smile with healthy gums.
Many people don’t realize that gum disease is incredibly common in the United States, and is one of the top causes of adult tooth loss. Daniel Sheridan DDS can help treat your gums to prevent any major issues and keep your whole mouth healthy.
Be Aware of Gum Disease Symptoms
Gum disease, especially in its early stages, may not even have symptoms. This is why it’s important to visit our office every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. In addition, please let us know if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms of gum disease:
- Swollen or red gums.
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
- A receding gum line.
- Gums that are tender to touch or pressure.
- Pus buildup between gums and teeth.
- Mouth sores.
- Chronic bad breath.
- Spaces opening up between gums and teeth.
- Mouth pain that won’t go away.
- Misaligned bite or changes in your bite.
- Lost permanent teeth.
As gum disease progresses, the damage becomes more permanent. If you have symptoms of gum disease, please let us know right away!
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease starts small and can progress into a serious complication if left untreated. One of the reasons it’s so important to keep up regular dental exams and cleanings is so you can avoid gum disease or catch it in the early stages.
Gingivitis
The earliest stage of gum disease is also known as gingivitis, which is caused by plaque that has built up over time. The bacteria in the plaque can leak toxins into your gums.
You may also be at increased risk of gum disease if you:
- Smoke or use tobacco.
- Are not removing the plaque on your teeth with brushing or flossing.
- Have a high stress level.
- Are taking certain medications.
- Lack proper nutrition.
- Have a chronic disease, like diabetes, HIV, or cancer.
Scheduling regular dental visits is also important for keeping gum disease at bay. Professional cleanings can remove tartar and plaque buildup that toothbrushes sometimes can’t remove. Gum disease is also reversible at this stage, which is why it’s important to keep visiting your dentist!
Periodontitis
The second stage of gum disease is known as periodontitis. In this stage, the disease spreads to the gum tissue and can cause infection in the bone tissue. This is the time when adults often start to have issues with their permanent teeth.
Fortunately, we offer Perio and root planing to help treat this phase of gum disease. Keep reading to find out more about our treatment options.
Aggressive Periodontitis
When gum disease attacks the bone tissues and is left untreated, adult teeth start falling out. Patients who have lost teeth may want to consider tooth replacement options like dental implants or dental bridges.
Perio Protect for Healthy Teeth
Perio Protect is a non-invasive treatment for periodontitis. This treatment uses custom bacteria-fighting dental trays that work a lot like teeth whitening trays and can be worn at home. Many of our patients like this treatment because they can use the trays when it’s convenient for them.
Perio is a customized treatment plan so you receive the most from your treatment. The dentist works with you every step of the way to ensure the trays are working the way they are meant to work.
Root Planing to Treat Gum Disease
Root planing is a treatment designed for deep scaling of the root surface to smooth out the rough areas left by bacterial infection. The dentist may occasionally apply medicine directly to the root during treatment, but only if necessary.
Like scaling, root planing uses precision tools and methods to get under the gumline and remove plaque bacteria and tartar. We can also administer local anesthesia when needed to help you feel more comfortable during your appointment.
Call Us Today to Schedule Your Appointment
We’re excited to meet you and help you take care of your teeth with excellent and experienced care. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment!
