Fight Gum Disease at Aesthetic Dental Associates
Our experienced team of dental professionals in Seattle is dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy gums and maintain optimal dental health. The best way to do that is through educating our patients on common dental ailments and their prevention. Gum disease is a common condition that can lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated.
From non-surgical treatments to periodontal surgery, our Seattle dentists customize our approach to each patient’s unique needs and goals. We’re committed to providing exceptional care and helping patients achieve a healthy, confident smile no matter what oral problems they may be facing.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects the gums and surrounding tissues of the teeth. It’s caused by bacterial buildup and plaque on the teeth, which can lead to inflammation, swelling, and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can cause serious damage to the teeth and gums, leading to tooth loss and other health complications.
Periodontal disease progression can be influenced by various factors, including poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, certain medications, and systemic diseases like diabetes. Regular checkups and professional dental cleanings are crucial to detect and treat gum disease at its early stages.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease is typically divided into three stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Each stage of periodontal disease requires different levels of treatment. It’s important to address the condition as early as possible to prevent further damage.
Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include redness, bleeding, and tenderness of the gums. Dr. Johnson can treat gingivitis through dental cleanings and by encouraging patients to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home.
Periodontitis
This is the second stage of periodontal disease and occurs when inflammation and infection spread from the gums to the surrounding tissues and bone. Symptoms of periodontitis include receding gums, deep pockets between the teeth and gums, and bone loss. Treatment for periodontitis may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and surgery.
Advanced Periodontitis
This is the most severe stage of gum disease and occurs when the infection has spread deep into the tissues and bone. Symptoms of advanced periodontitis include severe bone loss, tooth loss, and gum recession. Treatment for advanced periodontitis may include gum grafting, bone grafting, and tooth extraction.
Symptoms of Periodontal Diseases
While it’s possible to have periodontal disease and not be aware, there are certain symptoms you may experience:
- Bleeding gums
- Red, tender, swollen gums
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth, also known as gum recession
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Separating or loose teeth
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Contact our Seattle dentist for an appointment if you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease. By catching the disease early on, you’ll avoid the development of permanent complications, such as tooth loss.
Periodontal Disease Treatment Options
There are various periodontal disease treatment options available. Those may include:
- Professional Cleanings: Professional cleaning is a simple and effective way to remove plaque buildup and bacteria from the teeth and gums. During professional teeth cleanings, a dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove buildup from the teeth and gums, leaving them clean and healthy.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and bacteria from below the gum line. This procedure is typically used to treat periodontitis and can help prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.
- Laser Periodontal Therapy: Laser periodontal therapy is a minimally-invasive treatment option for periodontal disease that utilizes laser technology to remove infected tissue and promote healing. This treatment can be an effective alternative to traditional gum surgery, with less pain, swelling, and downtime.
- Bone and Gum Grafting: Bone and gum grafting restores lost bone and gum tissue due to advanced gum disease or tooth loss. During the procedure, grafts of bone or tissue are taken from other areas of the mouth or a donor source and transplanted to the affected area to promote new tissue growth.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help kill the bacteria that cause gum disease and reduce inflammation and infection.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat advanced gum disease. Surgery options may include gum grafting, bone grafting, or tooth extraction.
Call our Seattle dental practice today to learn more about treatment options and learn how you can prevent gum disease.
Costs of Gum Disease Treatment
The cost of gum disease treatment involves a diverse landscape of financial factors. These factors typically include the severity of the periodontal disease, the prescribed treatment plan, the geographical location, and the chosen dental professional. From less invasive procedures like scaling and root planing, which may offer a more economical option, to more intricate surgical interventions such as gum flap surgery or bone grafting, which can carry a heftier price tag, the range of costs can vary widely.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that investing in gum disease treatment is an essential step in maintaining oral health and preventing further complications. Postponing periodontal disease treatment or ignoring your symptoms could potentially lead to needing more extensive and expensive dental procedures down the road. Consulting with your dentist is recommended to gain a clearer understanding of the specific cost, tailored to individual circumstances and requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, gum disease can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing daily, using fluoride toothpaste, and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include redness, swelling, bleeding gums, and tenderness of the soft tissue. If you‘re experiencing any of these symptoms, see your dentist for an evaluation.
No, gum disease is not contagious. However, bacteria that cause gum disease can be spread through saliva, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits to prevent the spread of bacteria and gum infection.
Yes, gum disease has been linked to other health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Maintaining good oral hygiene and treating gum disease promptly can help reduce the risk of these other health conditions and complications.
Let Us Help You Fight Gum Disease in Seattle, WA
If you’re experiencing symptoms or warning signs of gum disease or have concerns about your dental health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our dentists. Our team of dental professionals is here to provide you with the care and support you need to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
To schedule an appointment, contact our Seattle dentists today. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!
