Gum disease affects almost 70% of adults.
Periodontal disease is a common bacterial infection of the gum tissue that can threaten the health and integrity of the teeth, which are supported by healthy gums. Often a result of poor oral hygiene, gum disease may be preventable with routine oral health exams and improved oral hygiene. Periodontal disease treatment is a restorative dentistry service that Dr. Heather Adams provides in Rogers, AK.
Gum disease is a progressive disease that is best treated in the earliest stage of development known as gingivitis. As bacteria multiply and spread damage can be caused to the gums, teeth, and jaw.
Patients with gum disease are more prone to:
- Receding gumlines
- Swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Loosening of teeth
- Halitosis
- Tooth Loss
- Bone loss
Advanced gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.
As gum disease spreads bacteria from deep pockets within the gumline. Gums become inflamed and start to pull away from the teeth. Receding gums increase the risk of loose teeth that may fall out.
Left untreated periodontal disease can damage more than just our oral health. Patients with gum disease are at a higher risk of many systemic diseases. Once bacteria enter the bloodstream, patients are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes.
For patients with an existing disease or medical conditions, periodontal disease can often impact symptoms and may be made worse by prescribed medication. Discuss your medical concerns with Dr. Adams and our team during routine visits so that we can make the most individualized recommendations for your needs.
Dr. Heather Adams offers periodontal therapy for patients in Rogers and Bentonville, AR with varying stages of gum disease. Personalized treatment and oral hygiene advice can help patients with developing or chronic gum disease to restore health and avoid more complex dental problems.
What To Expect
Dr. Adams builds personalized treatment plans when addressing gum disease to help patients restore and enjoy their optimal oral health. A thorough oral health exam and consultation provide Dr. Adams with the information needed to recommend the most suitable treatment options.
Dr. Adams and our dental care team can also make personalized recommendations on how to improve your oral hygiene routine at home to prevent future flare-ups of gum disease.
PERIODONTAL THERAPY ROGERS, AR
The objective of periodontal therapy is to remove harmful bacteria from the oral cavity and to restore any secondary dental concerns. Dr. Adams offers restorative options to rebuild healthy, stable smiles once damaged by gum disease.
Most patients with gum disease will receive a deep dental cleaning called scaling & root planing. The scaling and root planing procedure allows Dr. Adams to reach into the deep bacterial pockets to remove damaged tissue and clear out bacteria buildup.
Dr. Adams may also incorporate bone grafting, dental implants, gum contouring treatments, or other cosmetic or restorative procedures in order to rebuild a stable, healthy, and beautiful smile.
FAQs
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes! Gum disease can wreak havoc on your oral health and your overall health. It can progress and lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. There is also a connection between periodontal disease and many health issues such as heart disease. Treating this progressive disease in the early stages is imperative to avoid these major issues including tooth loss.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Scaling and root planing does not typically cause pain. However, not every person experiences pain on the same level. This deep-cleaning procedure will probably cause some level of discomfort though. Dr. Adams will be removing a lot of built-up plaque and tartar from your teeth. If this bacteria-filled substance reaches your gums, they may be extra sensitive. Afterward, your gums may be sore and tender for a few days. The benefits of this procedure include keeping the gum disease from progressing which can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, bone loss, and disease.
What are the risk factors of gum disease?
There are many risk factors for getting gum disease. These include smoking or using tobacco products, not brushing or flossing regularly, genetics, and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. For the most part, gum disease can be prevented. You should avoid using tobacco in any form, maintain a strict at-home oral hygiene routine, and visit our Rogers, AR dentist office at least twice a year for a thorough teeth cleaning. You should also take all measures to live a healthy life with exercise and a good diet.