Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that impacts the health of your gums and supporting structures of your teeth.
Left untreated, it can lead to significant oral health issues and even affect your overall health. Our Summerville, SC periodontal practice offers comprehensive, personalized care to manage and reverse periodontal disease, helping you restore gum health and prevent further complications. Start your journey toward healthier gums—schedule your consultation today!
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, often referred to as gum disease, is a bacterial infection affecting the tissues around your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, which involves mild gum irritation, but can progress to periodontitis, leading to more severe issues if untreated. Knowing the basics of this condition empowers patients to recognize symptoms and seek timely treatment.
- Disease progression: Begins with a bacterial infection in the gums.
- Stages of severity: Progresses from gingivitis to more severe periodontitis.
- Health impact: Can lead to gum recession and loss of supporting bone structure.
- Need for intervention: Requires professional care to prevent complications.
Stages & Symptoms Of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease progresses in stages, each with distinct symptoms. Recognizing these early signs can help prevent more serious health consequences.
- Gingivitis: Mild gum irritation, occasional bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Early periodontitis: Receding gums and early bone loss, leading to bad breath
- Advanced periodontitis: Severe gum recession, significant bone loss, and possible tooth loss
By understanding the symptoms at each stage, patients can address periodontal disease early and maintain their oral health.
Impact Of Untreated Periodontal Disease
Untreated, periodontal disease can result in not only tooth loss but also a range of health issues. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream, leading to serious conditions.
- Heart health: Increases risk for heart disease.
- Systemic effects: May exacerbate respiratory and diabetic conditions.
- Oral health consequences: Leads to progressive bone and tissue loss in the mouth.
- Overall wellness: Can compromise health and wellness.
By addressing gum disease early, patients can protect their overall health and well-being.
Non-Surgical Treatments For Periodontal Disease
For many, non-surgical treatments offer an effective way to manage gum disease and reduce inflammation without invasive measures. These treatments focus on controlling infection and preventing further damage to gum tissue and bone.
- Bacterial control: Reduces plaque buildup and harmful bacteria.
- Healing support: Promotes reattachment of gum tissue to teeth.
- Long-term health: Supports gum health over the long term.
- Effective first-line treatment: Suitable for most patients with periodontal disease.
Non-surgical periodontal treatments are designed to restore gum health and prevent disease progression.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure that targets bacterial buildup below the gumline. This treatment is a vital step for anyone experiencing gum inflammation or early stages of gum disease.
- Plaque removal: Eliminates plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
- Inflammation reduction: Reduces inflammation and encourages healing.
- Gum health: Helps gums reattach to the tooth surface.
- Treatment effectiveness: Suitable for mild to moderate periodontal disease.
Scaling and root planing is an essential first step in controlling periodontal disease and promoting healthy gums.
Periodontal Maintenance
To effectively manage periodontal disease over time, ongoing periodontal maintenance is critical. This service includes routine cleanings and monitoring to prevent recurrence and protect gum health.
- Deep cleaning: Provides regular cleanings to control bacterial buildup.
- Health monitoring: Includes exams to spot early signs of recurrence.
- Long-term protection: Supports ongoing gum health and prevents progression.
- Preserves results: Helps maintain the benefits of initial treatment.
Regular periodontal maintenance helps patients enjoy healthier gums and better oral health in the long term.
Prevention Tips
Preventing periodontal disease is possible with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups. By maintaining a healthy routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
- Oral hygiene: Brush and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
- Regular visits: See your periodontist for cleanings and exams.
- Avoid risk factors: Refrain from smoking and tobacco products.
- Healthy diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support your immune system.
Following these simple tips can help you protect your gum health and avoid the complications of periodontal disease.
Rediscover Confidence With Healthy, Resilient Gums
At Carolina Periodontics in Summerville, SC, our periodontal practice is dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal gum health. We provide individualized care tailored to each stage of periodontal disease, supporting your journey to a healthier smile and an improved quality of life. Take the first step toward lasting gum health—schedule your consultation today!
