Periodontics Near You
Our gums are a vital component of our smiles. They also play a significant role in keeping our oral cavity healthy. But, just like any other structure in our bodies, they can experience injury or infection, triggering much more serious problems in the future if treatment isn’t acquired.
Seeking periodontal treatment near you from a dentist you trust is the first and arguably most important step in preserving your tissues and dental hygiene. Contact our dentist if you’d like to set up a consultation and learn more.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal, aka gum disease, occurs when gum tissues become unhealthy due to plaque accumulation, an infection, or cancer. Often, such a condition arises due to poor brushing habits and smoking, though genetics can also be a factor.
Our gums keep our teeth anchored in their sockets and provide a protective barrier for their roots and other oral entities like blood vessels and nerves. Once a gum infection develops, the best way to ensure it does not become more severe is to address it early by visiting a periodontist near you.
Signs and Symptoms
Depending on the extent of the condition, you can experience any number of symptoms, including the following:
- Bleeding gums
- Irritated or swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Tenderness
- Pus between your teeth
- Teeth feel loose
- Sensitivity
In many cases, the beginning stages of periodontal disease are not painful, so many patients don’t even realize they have it. This is why routine checkups with our local dentist are crucial; we can assess your smile physically and with x-rays to identify potential problems and remedy them immediately.
The Stages of Gum Disease
There are two primary stages that can occur; they are described in detail below.
Stage 1: Gingivitis
As you’re probably aware, this marks the development of the disease. It is the mildest stage and is, therefore, not very painful, if at all. Gingivitis occurs when there is an excessive build-up of plaque on your smile.
Common symptoms during this phase are redness, inflammation, and bleeding gums when brushing your teeth.
Fortunately, gingivitis can be reversed by acquiring periodontal treatment near you. A deep cleaning is done, which is much more thorough than a routine appointment.
Stage 2: Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated promptly and the plaque is left to accumulate, periodontitis will occur next. There are three substages:
- Early – Your gums will begin to recede, allowing pockets to form, which are spaces between your tooth and gums. This creates more space for bacteria to gather.
- Moderate – The depth of the pockets will increase, your teeth will feel loose in their sockets, and bone deterioration can start.
- Advanced – As the name makes clear, this is the most severe stage of gum disease. Further bone deterioration will take place, and your teeth may fall out. Complex and/or invasive measures, such as tooth extraction, gum flap surgery, and bone grafting, will be needed to address this.
If you have any questions, don’t wait to speak with a nearby dentist. Our periodontists are experts in their field and will be able to help you devise the best approach moving forward.
Contact Our Dental Professionals at Smart Dental Art
Do you need periodontics near you? Our wonderful, skilled team of dentists and specialists, hygienists, and administrative personnel are all waiting to assist you with your smile. No matter what you’re dealing with, be it a cavity, inflammation, or periodontitis, we will walk with you every step of the way and make sure that your smile is properly cared for.
Reach out to us today to schedule a one-on-one consultation.