Periodontal disease is a gingival tissue infection commonly caused by bacteria. It can be as mild as gingivitis (mild periodontal disease) or get as severe as periodontitis, a serious infection that can cause destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Mild gum disease is incredibly common, but periodontitis can be more serious and lead to tooth loss. Periodontal treatment can make a difference and can help stop periodontal disease from progressing.
If you’re in need of periodontal treatment services in Howard County, reach out to Columbia Smiles today. Our team, led by Dr. Michael Hsu, can help keep your whole family’s oral health in check.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infectious gum disorder that affects the gums and surrounding tissues. It’s caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums due to poor oral hygiene. Plaque is a sticky film composed of bacteria, saliva, and food particles that cling to your teeth. When plaque isn’t removed from your teeth daily, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which causes inflammation in the gums, leading to periodontal disease.
When plaque accumulates on your teeth over time, it can cause infection in the gum tissues which support them. This infection can cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed easily, resulting in redness or swelling around the affected area. As the infection gets worse over time, it can lead to bone deterioration and eventual tooth loss if not treated promptly. Early detection is optimal for successful treatment of periodontal disease.
Signs of periodontal disease include:
- Swollen and tender gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Pain when chewing
The earliest stages of gum disease can go unnoticed, but your dentist can detect periodontal problems from routine checkups.
The Most Common Treatments for Periodontal Disease
If your dentist has detected periodontal disease, there are several periodontal treatments available to help control and manage the condition. These treatments include:
- Scaling and root planing – This non-surgical periodontal treatment involves the removal of plaque and tartar in order to promote tissue healing.
- Antibiotic therapy – This periodontal treatment involves the use of antibiotics to reduce periodontal infection.
- Laser periodontal therapy – This minimally invasive periodontal treatment involves the use of a laser to remove diseased tissue and promote healthy periodontal healing.
- Periodontal surgery – This periodontal treatment is more invasive and involves the removal of affected periodontal tissue.
- Grafting procedures – This periodontal treatment involves the use of periodontal grafts to replace missing periodontal tissue.
The periodontal treatment that is best for you depends on the severity of your periodontal disease and other factors. Taking care of your gums after treatment will also be important for preventing periodontal disease from returning. Brushing regularly, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help keep periodontal disease at bay.
Reach Out to Columbia Smiles for Effective Periodontal Treatment
At Columbia Smiles, we understand how important it is to stay informed about periodontal disease so you can take proactive steps toward preventing it or addressing it if necessary. Our team is here to help you every step of the way—from preventive care all the way through treatment— please don’t hesitate to give us a call today. With our expertise and state-of-the-art technology, we’ll make sure you get back on track with healthy teeth and gums in no time. We’re committed to patient comfort and specialize in helping patients who experience dental anxiety—our goal is for you to enjoy a positive and stress-free experience in our office.
Reach out to our team at 410.690.4855 or connect with us online today to schedule an appointment.
