About Gum Disease Treatment
About 80% of the population have some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease: periodontitis (advanced) and gingivitis (mild), so Martin Dentistry in Indianapolis IN have many ways ways to treat it. Gum disease is an infection of the gums and bone that support teeth, which begins when plaque hardens into tartar (calculus) below the gum line. This irritates vulnerable soft tissues and infection can set in and spread quickly. Symptoms are so mild in the early phases that many patients don't recognize them: red, tender, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing teeth, and loose teeth. As the condition progresses, gums recede from teeth and pockets of bacteria form. The bacteria can destroy gum tissue and bone, causing tooth and bone loss, most of the time without any pain. General and cosmetic dentists, Drs. Martin, Martin, and Marshall offer many nonsurgical options for gum disease treatment.
Gum/Periodontal Disease Reviews
What to Expect
Once gum disease sets in, Martin Dentistry can often treat it with nonsurgical therapies, including:
- Scaling – to remove hardened plaque from below the gum line
- Root Planing – to reduce rough areas on teeth roots
- Antibiotic Therapy – to battle infection
- Laser Treatment – to remove bacteria and promote gum reattachment
- Surgery – advanced cases may require the care of a periodontist, in which case the dentist will make a referral to a trusted colleague.
Treatment Aftercare
Depending on the gum disease treatment used for the patient’s condition, the dentist will give specific aftercare instructions. After undergoing gum disease treatment, patients should talk to their dentist about improving the home oral care routine to prevent future problems and if they should come in more often than twice a year for preventative care.
Gum/Periodontal Disease Video
Healthy Gums = Healthy Body
Everything that enters or is present in the mouth has access to the whole body. Recent research reveals that gum disease is linked to an increased risk for major overall health problems, including stroke, heart disease, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, diabetes complications, low birth weight, and most recently, dementia. To set up an appointment for an exam to look for signs of gum disease, contact Martin Dentistry in Indianapolis.
