Gum disease is an extremely common condition that can be diagnosed and treated by a family dentist. Also called periodontal disease, this infection of the gums can negatively impact both the teeth and jawbone if left untreated.
Healthy gums should look pink and fit firmly around the teeth. Gum disease often begins when plaque builds up and hardens around the teeth and below the gumline. This tissue can become infected slowly, so it is important to be assessed by a family dentist during biannual dental exams.
A family dentist can assess gum health and diagnose gum disease by using a small probe to measure the depth of gum pockets. Healthy pockets should be less than 3 millimeters deep. These are other symptoms of gum disease that the dentist will look for:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, gum disease affects approximately half of adults age 30 and older. The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. During this stage, gums may bleed easily during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can often be reversed by improving oral hygiene daily routines and regular cleanings from the family dentist.
Periodontitis is a more serious stage of gum disease that is characterized by the gums pulling away from the teeth to allow pockets to form. When gums reach the advanced periodontitis stage, the teeth can loosen and fall out as the bone support further deteriorates. The infected gums can become prone to oozing pus. This stage may require gum surgery and tooth extraction.
A family dentist has a variety of non-surgical gum disease treatments available. The recommended course of action will depend on the stage of the disease.
Scaling is a deep-cleaning dental procedure where hardened plaque, called tartar, is carefully scraped off of teeth just under the gumline.
Root planing is often done in conjunction with scaling and involves using a curved instrument called a curette. The curette removes any diseased tissue from the exposed roots of the teeth. Root planing acts to reduce rough spots on the tooth, giving gums a smooth surface to reattach. This method also helps prevent future plaque buildup and reduces post-scaling irritation.
Family dentists can prescribe antibiotics in different forms such as in an oral rinse or medicated toothpaste. Sometimes the dentist will apply an antibiotic after scaling and root planing to speed healing and help gums re-form a tight seal around the teeth.
Maintaining healthy gums is essential to both oral and overall health, which is why it is important to have regular dental exams and cleanings. It is particularly important to consult with your family dentist if you notice any early signs of gum disease.
Request an appointment here: https://dentalstudiocolleyville.com or call Dental Studio Colleyville at (817) 885-5188 for an appointment in our Colleyville office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
One of the many things that a family dentist does is detect and treat tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 90% of adults in the United States have had a cavity at some point in time. Even though this issue is quite common, it does not mean that…
A unique benefit of choosing a family dentist is that this professional care for the oral health of your entire household during every stage of life. The dental needs of children, teenagers, and adults vary, so a family dentist who can offer a comprehensive range of services for every family member is a valuable asset.Family…
Many people get the majority of dental care from a family dentist. These types of dentists are tasked with maintaining patients' oral health and may perform a variety of procedures to do so. From cleaning to crowns to exams, family dentists can cover the essentials of oral health. These are some of the most common…
Whether an individual has simply not been to the family dentist in a few years or switched to a new provider, a first visit can be overwhelming and possibly nerve-wracking. Knowing what to expect during the first visit and how to prepare can help ease individuals’ concerns and ensure the appointment goes as smoothly as…
Oral surgery is an invasive procedure. A dentist will recommend this procedure if the damage is severe and correction must happen right away. This surgery may be an aggressive solution to a dental issue, but your dentist will not suggest it unless your comfort or health relies on it. If you want to know why…
Missing one tooth or multiple teeth can make it harder to perform everyday functions. It can also make you feel self-conscious about smiling. Dental implants not only restore the function and appearance of your smile, but they also help restore your everyday oral health.Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in a person's jawbone.…