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Gum Disease Treatments in Westland, MI

What is Gum Disease?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 47.2% of Americans 30 years or older have periodontal disease. Gum disease is common because it’s easily developed if you become less vigilant with your oral hygiene regimen.

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is the result of untreated plaque buildup on your teeth and gums. When bacteria affect your teeth above the gum line, cavities form. But below the gum line, the result is gum disease.

When gum disease begins to progress, your gums can begin to pull away from your teeth, forming pockets. These pockets only compound the effects of the disease, making it easier for bacteria to get into your gums.

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Common Symptoms of Gum Disease

If you notice the following symptoms, you may need treatment for gum disease:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Sore gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Receding gums
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Toothache

Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Though anyone can be affected by gum disease, there are some factors that can put you at a greater risk of developing it. These include smoking, stress, medications that reduce saliva production, genetic susceptibility, and health conditions like diabetes, AIDs, and cancer.

Treatments

Our office can provide gum disease treatments and help your oral health to get back on track. Treatment for gum disease, especially in the early stages, is simple and can provide a way for you to return your oral health to a better condition.

Deep Cleanings

Deep cleanings are the most common treatment for periodontal disease. We can clean your teeth, focusing below the gum line in order to help your oral health recover.

Deep cleanings are often called scaling and root planing because there are two significant portions of treatment. Scaling involves cleaning away excess plaque to get rid of the current bacterial infection.

Root planing is the second part and during this stage, we’ll smooth the surfaces of your roots. A smooth root surface makes bacteria less likely to attach to the roots and provides a way for your teeth to heal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gum disease is most often caused by poor oral hygiene. Bacteria that get under your gums feed on plaque, which is cleared away by brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings.

Gingivitis is one of the earliest stages of periodontal disease. If you have gingivitis, you can easily reverse your oral health condition by improving your oral hygiene practices. Periodontitis is more serious and requires professional dental treatment.

Left untreated, gum disease can progress to cause significant health issues. If your gum disease gets into your bloodstream, it can factor into strokes and heart disease. Abscessed teeth are also a very dangerous and painful condition.

When paired with regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings, any antimicrobial mouthwash is likely to be effective at preventing gum disease. At your appointment, your dentist may be able to recommend a specific type of mouthwash for you.

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