Preventing & Treating Gum Disease in Greenville
Help prevent gum disease with twice-yearly cleanings at our Greenville dental practice
Gum disease is a serious condition that if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss in adults. Also referred to as periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque that is not properly removed. Our experienced dental team at Longbranch Dental Center offers several treatment options to successfully treat gum disease.
Warning signs of gum disease:
- Gums that bleed easily or are red, swollen, or tender
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Permanent teeth that have become loose
- Any change in your bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is caused by a build-up of bacteria in the mouth that leads to gum inflammation or bleeding. Gingivitis is a result of a build-up of plaque, a change in hormones, illness, medications, or a family history of gum disease. If caught in the early stages, gingivitis can be treated with a deep clean, also known as a scaling and root planing procedure.
Periodontics is the second stage of gum disease and is the result of gingivitis being left untreated. At this stage,immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and tooth loss. Periodontics damages the supporting bones and fibers that hold your teeth in place. The gums begin to form “pockets” or deep hollow areas around the teeth. These hollow areas trap food, plaque, and bacteria.
Advanced periodontics is the third and final stage of gum disease. At this state, aggressive treatment is needed to save the teeth. At this advanced stage, bacteria that was allowed to grow, spread, and cause destruction has destroyed the connective tissues and bones that support the teeth. The pockets that formed in the periodontics stage has become much deeper and teeth can shift or loosen. Loose teeth that move around in the mouth may affect bite.
Treatments for Gum Disease
For patients with gingivitis, the dental team at Longbranch Dental Center will perform a scaling and root planing procedure. This procedure removes tarter and smooth’s the surface of the tooth to encourage the gum to reattach to the tooth.
For patients with periodontitis and advanced periodontitis, advanced treatment will be required. Your Greenville dentist will discuss with you the best treatment plan to repair the gums and any loose teeth.
Contact Us
To learn more about gum disease treatments in Greenville, contact Longbranch Dental Center to schedule an appointment today!