Periodontal Disease Q&A

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic infection of your gums. While you can prevent periodontal disease with diligent teeth brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings at Bay Dental, the infection is extremely prevalent and can lead to serious complications without treatment. In fact, it can eventually erode your gums and cause you to lose your teeth. 

There are two stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is milder than periodontitis and is reversible through improved oral hygiene. If you have gingivitis, it’s a good idea to change your hygiene habits and ask the Bay Dental team if any further treatment is necessary. 

Periodontitis is more severe: Unchecked gingivitis often develops into periodontitis. It requires professional treatment as you can no longer reverse it by brushing, flossing, or getting professional cleanings more often. The team at Bay Dental can identify signs of periodontitis right away and direct you to appropriate treatment. 

What are the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?

The symptoms of periodontal disease can become apparent at any stage of the disease but tend to get more severe over time. If you have gingivitis, some of the earliest symptoms are easy to overlook. As the condition progresses, you might experience increasing symptoms like:

• Gum swelling
• Dark pink or red gums
• Bad breath
• Tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Loose teeth
• Painful chewing
• Gum recession
• New or widening spaces between teeth
• Change in your bite

While dentists can detect signs of periodontal disease during a routine exam, you should schedule a separate appointment if you notice symptoms like these. The team at Bay Dental examines you and might use digital X-ray imaging to check for bone loss.

What are the options for treating periodontal disease?

You have several options for treating periodontal disease, and a personalized treatment plan depends on the severity of your case. The Bay Dental team develops your individualized care plan using advanced treatments such as:

• Scaling
• Root planing
• Antibiotics
• Gum graft surgery
• Flap surgery

It’s also crucial that you follow strict guidelines for oral hygiene, like brushing twice a day using the proper technique and flossing once a day. The team at Bay Dental teaches you how to keep your teeth and gums clear of the harmful bacteria that cause periodontal disease. 

Explore your options for periodontal disease treatment by scheduling an appointment over the phone or online at Bay Dental today.