Periodontal Treatment Specialist

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is an infection of the gums that progresses to receding gums, tooth loss, and breakdown of the jawbone if left untreated. This condition may not have noticeable symptoms initially, which is why it often goes undetected long enough to do significant damage. Periodontal disease is a combination of two conditions:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an infection of the gums, caused by bacteria that proliferate in the tartar. Tartar is a calcified plaque on the surface of the teeth.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the progressive form of gingivitis, when the infection expands deep into the gums and reaches the bone. Bone loss can lead to tooth loss, and further spread of infection.

Periodontal disease can affect more than just your oral health. It’s also a leading risk factor in other serious health conditions, such as heart disease, poor circulation, stroke, cancers, and premature births.

What are symptoms of periodontal disease?

Initially, symptoms of periodontal disease may seem insignificant and easy to ignore. While your dentist checks for signs of periodontal disease during all of your regular dental exams, it is important that you know what symptoms indicate that you may have gingivitis or periodontitis. These include:

• Tender or painful gums
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Bad breathReceding gums
• Increased space between teeth
• Red or swollen gums
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth

Every dental exam at The Diablo Dental Group includes an assessment of your gum health. With early detection and appropriate treatment, you can reverse the symptoms of periodontal disease and decrease your risk of tooth loss.

What treatments are available for periodontal disease?

Prevention of gingivitis and periodontitis is key to treatment of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is easier to prevent than to treat. However, with proper personal oral care and ongoing specialized treatment, it can be done.

The Diablo Dental Group offers two main treatments for periodontal disease, including:

Supportive periodontal therapy

A deep cleaning regimen that removes tartar deposits from teeth that are causing inflammation and infection. Cleanings may occur every 3-6 months, as your gums naturally heal and recover.

Laser-assisted scaling and root planing

A deeper cleaning process to remove deposits and infection that have progressed to the roots of your teeth. Once these deposits are removed, your gums can heal and stop receding.

These specialized cleaning methods are part of a long-term treatment plan. Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, these treatments may take place over several visits.

To get your periodontal disease treatment started, call or schedule an appointment online with The Diablo Dental Group.