Do you notice some “pink in the sink” when you brush? Are your gums puffy, red, or irritated? If so, you may have gum disease (also called periodontal disease). At Titus Dentistry, we are committed to the oral health of our patients in the Middletown, Anderson, Pendleton, Muncie, and surrounding IN communities and offer a comprehensive array of periodontal therapy options to treat gum disease.
Why treat gum disease?
While gum disease is incredibly common and may not seem like something that needs to be addressed, it is an insidious disease and can lead to major oral health problems, such as tooth loss, bone deterioration, and gum recession. In addition, periodontal disease has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and other systemic problems. While the risk of gum disease increases as you age and in patients with certain risk factors, it can occur in anyone at any age. Once gum disease develops, it is essential to treat it as soon as possible to prevent it from progressing into a more serious version of the disease that is difficult to reverse.
Gum disease treatment options
Like most diseases, there are multiple stages of gum disease and the treatment plan that is appropriate for each patient depends on their specific health needs.
- Patients with gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, may only need to change their daily oral hygiene habits and come into the dental office for more regular deep cleanings.
- Scaling and root planing may be recommended as a starting point to control more advanced gum disease. Using specialized instruments, we remove the plaque and tartar that have built up beneath the gum line.
- Laser gum treatment can be used to treat areas that have decayed, eliminate bacterial growth, and remove diseased gum tissues with less discomfort than more traditional methods. It also helps stimulate growth of healthy new tissue to help replace diseased tissues that may have been lost.
- Antibiotic therapy (either topical or oral) may be recommended to help eradicate the bacteria that are contributing to the disease.
- Gum grafting is a procedure that is performed to replace gum tissue that has been lost to the disease. In this procedure, healthy tissue is taken from another area of your mouth and placed into the area where tissue has been lost.
If you think you may have gum disease, don’t delay in calling us to schedule an evaluation. With early periodontal treatment, you can halt the disease in its tracks for a healthy smile. Our Middletown, IN office can be reached at (765) 358-5868.
What does the term “periodontics” encompass?
Periodontics, one of several distinguished dental specialties acknowledged by the American Dental Association, centralizes its work on the analysis and treatment of the soft tissues and bone structures that support the teeth and jaw. This field of dentistry is intricately involved with maintaining the health and functionality of these structural elements, which are crucial to overall oral health.
Who exactly qualifies as a periodontist?
A periodontist is a professional dental specialist who, according to the rigorous standards set by the American Dental Association, possesses the necessary training and comprehensive experience to proficiently diagnose, treat, and provide prevention strategies for various forms of periodontal or gum diseases. They hold an important role in oral healthcare, ensuring the well-being of your gums, teeth, and mouth.
What exactly is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is also known as gum disease. This common oral health problem usually starts with plaque accumulating on the surface of the tooth, particularly close to the gum line. When this plaque is not regularly removed through brushing and flossing, it solidifies into tartar.
The buildup of plaque over the tartar could ultimately result in the gums turning red, swollen, and inflamed. This condition is called gingivitis and is the preliminary stage of periodontal disease. The transition from gingivitis to periodontal disease can occur without prompt treatment.
What are some symptoms of periodontal disease?
You might be dealing with periodontal disease if you exhibit any of these symptoms:
- Experiencing soreness, redness, and swelling in the gums
- Bleeding gums during routine brushing and flossing tasks
- Teeth appearing elongated or displaying signs of being loose
- Formation of substantive gaps between the teeth
- Gums starting to recede from the teeth
- Persistent issue of bad breath
The consequences of untreated, periodontal disease can affect overall health significantly, including an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. For expectant mothers, the presence of periodontal disease might even contribute to preterm birth or delivering a low-birth-weight baby. The health of your smile has profound implications for your overall bodily health.
Can periodontal disease be managed and treated effectively?
Yes! Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can be prevented and treated effectively. With modern advancements in quality dental care, we now have a wide range of gentle, safe, and successful treatment options to tackle gum disease. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease or gingivitis, our highly skilled dentist, Dr. Jonathan W. Titus, will guide you in determining the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. The range of periodontal treatments we offer includes:
- Non-invasive treatment methods
- Surgical intervention for advanced cases
- Comprehensive periodontal therapy
- Dental implants for tooth loss due to gum disease
- Homecare regimen including specialized toothpaste, mouthwash, toothbrushes, and prescription treatment trays
How can I know if I’m at risk of developing periodontal disease?
Several factors can influence the risk of developing periodontal disease. You might have an increased vulnerability to gum disease if you indulge in the habit of smoking or using tobacco products, if you don’t maintain a regular oral hygiene routine, such as brushing and flossing, and if you have certain health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, or osteoporosis. Genetics can also play a role, as gum disease can sometimes run in families. If several of your family members have experienced gum disease, your chances of contracting it might be higher. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or believe you may be at a higher risk, we recommend scheduling an appointment with the team at Titus Dentistry in Middletown, Indiana. They can provide a professional evaluation to determine if any treatment is necessary.
