What is Gum Disease?

Otherwise known as periodontitis or periodontal disease, gum disease is a chronic infection of the gum tissues.

When bacteria inside the mouth is not managed with proper oral care, it begins to eat away at the gum tissues – and eventually, the bone tissue.

Symptoms of gum disease include:

• Receding gum tissue
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath
• Bleeding, pain, or swelling in the gums
• Tooth loss
• Bone recession

What is Periodontal Treatment?

Gum disease can’t be reversed, but it can be prevented from progressing with a proper interceptive treatment – known as periodontal treatment.

Bacteria reside in plaque, a sticky film that covers the surfaces of the teeth. If plaque is not removed with brushing and flossing, it hardens into a substance called tartar. Tartar is bone-hard, and can only be removed by a dental professional. In order completely to remove the plaque and tartar, a “deep cleaning” must be done.

Deep cleanings (known clinically as scaling and root planings) are designed to target and remove the harmful bacteria that reside both above and below the gumline.

To begin, patients are typically numbed with a local anesthetic. The hygienist will then work to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. Once the mouth is clean, an antibiotic solution will typically be placed beneath the gums to limit bacteria growth between visits.

Deep cleanings are typically done every three months; this ensures that the dentist and hygienist are able to keep a close eye on the condition.

Cooper Family Dentistry: Keeping Clinton Smiling

Cooper Family Dentistry is proud to provide comprehensive gum disease treatment in Clinton. We also offer a wide range of both preventative and restorative dental care.

For more information about periodontal treatment, or to get scheduled in our Clinton dental office, feel free to give us a call at 865-457-1496. Busy schedule? No worries; use our convenient online appointment request form.