Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Have you been searching for periodontal disease treatment in Kilgore, TX? Silvertooth and Whinery Family Dentistry is here to help. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that can damage the gums and bone supporting your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to severe oral health issues, including tooth loss.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis or gum disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting the soft tissues and bone around teeth. It starts as gingivitis, which is gum inflammation due to plaque buildup. If untreated, it progresses to periodontitis, causing gum and bone damage, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Types Of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
The mildest form, caused by plaque buildup, leading to red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
Periodontitis
More severe, characterized by pockets forming between teeth and gums, leading to bone loss.
Aggressive Periodontitis
Rapid progression of bone and tissue loss, often affecting younger individuals.
Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
Severe infection causing gum tissue death, often associated with other health issues like HIV.
Periodontitis Due To Systemic Diseases
Linked to conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Treatment Options
Scaling & Root Planing
To preserve the health of the gum tissue, the bacteria and the tartar that initially caused the infection must be removed. The gum pockets will be cleaned and treated with antibiotics as necessary to help alleviate the condition. A prescription mouthwash may be incorporated into daily cleaning routines.
Tissue Regeneration
When the bone and gum tissues have been destroyed, regrowth can be actively encouraged using grafting procedures. A membrane may be inserted into the affected areas to assist regeneration.
Pocket Elimination Surgery
Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment that can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option that eliminates indentations in the bone, which fosters the colonization of bacteria.
Dental Implants
When teeth have been lost due to this disease, we can restore the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth by using dental implants. Tissue regeneration procedures may be required before the placement of a dental implant to strengthen the bone.
