Recognition the key to appropriate gum disease treatment near Woodstock

Gum disease is concern for many people. About half of all American adults have some form of this condition, which could become quite serious if treatment is not provided promptly. There is a range within the condition of gum disease, first affecting gum tissue, and ultimately affecting the bone that supports teeth. The good news is that you are largely in control of the progression, or cessation, of gum disease. At 32 Dental, we offer personalized gum disease treatment for our patients from Woodstock and surrounding areas.

Gingivitis

Bacteria are a regular occurrence in the oral cavity. These living microorganisms come in hundreds of types, some of which can pose great risk to health. Bacteria, combined with tiny food particles and saliva, form plaque, a sticky, colorless substance that adheres to the teeth. Through daily brushing and flossing, plaque may be removed. Left on teeth, however, plaque will harden, forming tartar, which can only be removed with professional cleanings.

Gingivitis develops in the presence of plaque and tartar. Essentially, gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue. This condition can be recognized as swelling and redness, or the easy bleeding of gums during oral hygiene. It is important to detect these early signs, as this is the only time when we can reverse the effects of gum disease.

Periodontitis

The progression of gingivitis into periodontitis is serious, as deeper areas of gum tissue become affected. Periodontitis will typically include the formation of pockets around affected teeth. These pockets harbor bacteria and infection, prompting an immune response that leads to chronic inflammation. Periodontitis not only threatens gum tissue, bone tissue, and teeth, but the entire body as chronic inflammation is associated with serious medical conditions including stroke.

Treating gum disease

Gum disease treatment is aimed at controlling infection. The way we treat gum disease is based on the extent of damage, and the level of disease. Early detection leads to the most conservative treatment, often simply a general cleaning and education on home hygiene techniques. More advanced forms of gum disease will require ongoing monitoring and treatment.

Scaling and root planing

A common gum disease treatment, scaling and root planing is performed by a skilled hygienist. This treatment removes the tartar and plaque that have built up around teeth. Scaling is the manual removal of these substances, performed under local anesthetic for a comfortable process. Root planing addresses the texture of affected teeth, which may have rough spots where bacteria can easily collect. Smoothing the surface of the tooth leads to better connection between gum tissue and root.

Medications

Infection is commonly treated with antibiotics. Gum disease, being an infection, tends to respond well to prescription medication, and may provide results that help us avoid surgical treatment.

Gum disease is an oral condition that can impact health and wellbeing. With excellent oral hygiene and regular dental examinations, it is possible to avoid the onset and progression of this serious disease process. Contact 32 Dental today for your comprehensive dental evaluation.

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