Periodontics

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a common condition caused by poor oral hygiene, leading to plaque and tartar buildup around the gums. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe stages, affecting the gums, bone, and teeth.

Stages of Gum Disease:

• Gingivitis: The early stage with swollen, red gums that bleed or feel tender when brushing or flossing. Often unnoticed due to mild symptoms.

• Periodontitis: At this stage, the condition is no longer reversible but can be managed. Symptoms include deeper gum pockets, tooth sensitivity, and bad breath. Bone loss begins here.

• Advanced Periodontitis: The final stage, where tooth loss and infection spread, causing pain, difficulty chewing, and pus around teeth.

Scaling & Root Planing: Treatment for Advanced Gum Disease

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure designed for treating periodontitis and advanced periodontitis. Here’s how it works:

1. Teeth Cleaning: Special tools are used to remove plaque and tartar both above and below the gum line.

2. Cleaning Gum Pockets: We clean deep into gum pockets to remove bacteria and help the gums reattach to the teeth.

3. Bone Smoothing: Damaged bone surfaces are smoothed to prevent bacteria buildup and promote healing.

This procedure is crucial for halting the progression of gum disease and restoring gum health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, contact us to schedule an appointment.