(801) 212-9061
7555 Center View Ct Suite 104 West Jordan, UT 84084
Periodontal Disease Treatment in West Jordan
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a significant dental health concern that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It’s a progressive condition that can lead to serious complications if left untreated, including tooth loss and potential links to systemic health issues.
If you or your loved one may be suffering periodontal disease, contact our office today at (801) 212-9061 to schedule an appointment.
Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Recognizing the Symptoms
- Early Symptoms: The initial stage, gingivitis, is marked by red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing. This stage is often reversible with professional dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene.
- Advanced Symptoms: As gingivitis progresses to periodontitis persistent bad breath, receding gums, formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums, loose or shifting teeth, and changes in the way teeth fit together when biting begin presenting and become more of a serious health risk.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Plaque Buildup: The primary cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If not regularly removed, plaque turns into tartar, which is more difficult to clean and contributes to further gum inflammation.
- Genetics: Some individuals are more susceptible to gum disease due to their genetic makeup.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor oral hygiene, and a diet high in sugar increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions like diabetes, hormonal changes in women (such as during pregnancy or menopause), and medications that reduce saliva flow can contribute to gum disease.
Treatment Approaches
- Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Professional Dental Cleanings: Regular cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, particularly above and below the gum line.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning procedures where the dentist removes plaque and tartar from deep gum pockets and smoothens the tooth root to help gums reattach to the teeth.
- Surgical Treatments:
- Pocket Reduction Surgery (Flap Surgery): Gums are lifted back to remove tartar, and irregular surfaces of the damaged bone are smoothed to limit areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide.
- Soft Tissue Grafts: Used to cover roots or develop gum tissue where it has receded due to excessive gingival recession.
- Bone Grafting: This procedure is performed to regenerate and rebuild bone destroyed by periodontitis. Graft materials could be natural or synthetic and serve as a platform for the regrowth of natural bone.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration: Encourages the regrowth of bone that was destroyed by bacteria, using a small piece of biocompatible fabric inserted between the bone and tooth.
- Laser Treatment: Emerging as an adjunct to traditional treatment, laser therapy can be used to remove diseased gum tissue and promote the regeneration of healthy tissue.
Ongoing Management and Prevention
- Regular Dental Visits: Crucial for early detection and management of periodontal disease. Professional cleanings are essential even after treatment.
- Effective Oral Hygiene Practices: Daily brushing and flossing to remove plaque are fundamental in preventing gum disease.
- Lifestyle Modifications: This includes quitting smoking, managing diabetes, and adopting a balanced diet to improve overall gum health.
Common Misconceptions about Periodontal Disease
Misconception: Gum Disease is Only a Dental Issue
Fact: Periodontal disease has been linked to systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions.
Misconception: Bleeding Gums are Normal
Fact: Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation and should not be ignored, as they often indicate the onset of gingivitis.
Misconception: Once You Have Periodontal Disease, Tooth Loss is Inevitable
Fact: With early detection and proper treatment, it’s possible to halt the progression of periodontal disease and preserve natural teeth.
Periodontal disease is a common condition, but with proper care and treatment, it can be prevented or repaired.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease call our office at (801) 212-9061.
Frequently Asked Questions
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It’s typically caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, leading to periodontal disease. Factors like smoking, genetics, certain illnesses, and medications can also contribute to its development.
Common symptoms include swollen, red, or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, receding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and changes in the way teeth fit together. In its early stages, periodontal disease may not cause any discomfort, making regular dental check-ups essential for early detection.
Yes, periodontal disease progresses in stages. It begins with gingivitis, the mildest form, which affects only the gums. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, where the infection spreads to the bone and supporting tissues, leading to more severe symptoms and potential tooth loss.
Diagnosis typically involves a dental examination, including checking for gum bleeding, swelling, and pocket depth (the space between the gum and tooth). X-rays may also be taken to observe the health of the bone supporting the teeth.
Treatment depends on the disease’s severity. Early stages can often be managed with non-surgical treatments like deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). More advanced cases may require surgical interventions, such as flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts, to restore damaged tissues.
Research has shown links between periodontal disease and other health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. The inflammation associated with periodontal disease may be a contributing factor to these systemic health problems.
Gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease, is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings. However, more advanced stages of the disease may require more extensive treatment, and damage to the gums and bone can be irreversible.
Preventing periodontal disease involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoiding tobacco, managing health conditions like diabetes, and maintaining a balanced diet also contribute to healthy gums.
Most periodontal treatments are performed with minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia can be used during procedures to ensure patient comfort. Post-treatment, any discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
If you’re unsure whether your situation constitutes a dental emergency, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and contact our office. Our experienced team can guide you and provide the necessary advice.
BOOKING HOURS
M 8AM–5PM | Tu 8AM–5PM | Wed 7AM–6PM | Th 8AM–5PM | Fr 8AM–5PM
We are OPEN for ALL dental care procedures and emergency needs. Protecting the health and safety of our patients, families, and team members remains our number one priority.
Free $50 Gift Card*
$50 Gift Card when you complete an appointment with us!
*Redeemable after completed paid treatment. Must be a new patient to our organization and must not have been seen in ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS. The patient will receive a gift card via email or SMS after completion of their appt.
Free Exam & X-ray^
For New Patients without insurance we offer Free Exam and X-rays!
^For New Patients that do not have dental insurance. New patients must be 18 or older to receive free exam and x-rays. Discounts cannot be combined with other offers or dental discount plans. Additional fees may be included in individual cases.
$99 Hygiene Visit^^
For New Patients without insurance we offer Free Exam and X-rays!
^^For new patients without dental insurance. Includes Exam, X-Ray and Routine Cleaning. A Periodontal Cleaning requires additional fees, and rescheduled for further treatment. Cannot be combined with other offers or dental discount plans.
