Gum disease is one of the biggest causes of tooth loss for men and women in the United States. Walker Family Dentistry in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, helps patients of all ages keep their gums healthy. If you do have gum disease, the team offers the latest treatments, including laser therapy, to treat advanced stages of the disease. If you have gum disease, the sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances will be at preventing tooth loss. Call the office or request an appointment online.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the result of plaque buildup and bacteria accumulation around the soft tissue that supports your teeth. Some warning signs that you may have developed this condition, include:
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. You may not notice symptoms at first, so it’s important not to allow the condition to progress to more advanced stages, such as periodontitis.
There are several reasons you may develop gum disease. One major cause is poor oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth to keep plaque from building up along your gum line, you’ll most likely develop gingivitis. Other factors that contribute to the onset of gum disease include:
If you suspect you have gum disease because your gums are swollen or bleeding, schedule an appointment at Walker Family Dentistry. The early signs of gingivitis can usually be reversed with prompt treatment.
Your treatment depends on the stage of your gum disease and your overall oral health. In its early stages, periodontal disease often responds well to a deep cleaning that includes scaling and root planing. This nonsurgical approach to gum disease thoroughly cleans the surface of your teeth and the roots that may be exposed from receding gums.
If you have more advanced stages of periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend laser therapy. Laser therapy for gum disease preserves the damaged tissue and kills the infection and bacteria in your gums and teeth. Using a special laser, your dentist removes any infected tissue using an ultrasonic root cleaner instead of a manual scraping tool.
Laser therapy for gum disease is a state-of-the-art treatment method that stimulates the cells in your mouth to regenerate new, healthy gum tissue and bone. Your body’s healing response to the laser treatment can help preserve your teeth and minimize the risk of a systemic bacterial infection.
If your gums hurt or bleed on occasion, a dental checkup can confirm if you have gum disease. Call today to schedule or book online anytime day or night.
