About Periodontal Disease
Though it is common among many patients, periodontal (gum) disease is a progressive oral infection that can lead to tooth loss and other health concerns without professional care. Gum disease is characterized by a deterioration of gum and jawbone tissues and is the main source of tooth loss among adults. The condition is generally the result of disease-causing bacteria that live within the plaque that forms on the teeth and gums, though a number of other factors may worsen its effects. The general dentists and team at ACE Dental of New Braunfels screen for periodontal disease during routine exams and provide effective solutions for treating the various stages of the infection. If you believe gum disease may be impacting your oral health, we encourage you to schedule a periodontal evaluation at our New Braunfels, TX practice.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is typically diagnosed according to its stage and severity. Gingivitis, or the earliest stage, results from a buildup of bacterial plaque around the gums. At this stage, the condition does not cause bone damage and is entirely reversible. When gingivitis is not treated, it may move on to the periodontitis stage of infection. Periodontitis is characterized by a breakdown of the fibers that help support the teeth and early bone loss. As the most severe stage, advanced periodontitis indicates the further progression of the disease and may cause tooth mobility and the loss of teeth.
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Gum Disease Symptoms
Detecting and treating periodontal disease as early as possible is crucial to prevent its progression. Many patients can unknowingly have gum disease, making it essential to keep routine dental visits with our New Braunfels, TX practice. Some of the most common gum disease symptoms and signs are:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Tender, swollen, or red gum tissues
- Bad breath or a bad taste that will not resolve
- Receding gums or tooth sensitivity
- Teeth that feel loose
- Pus around the gumline
Gum disease may also have an impact on your general health. It has been associated with a variety of systemic health issues, some of which include heart disease, pregnancy concerns, type 2 diabetes, and memory loss.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
During routine exams at ACE Dental of New Braunfels, our team screens for periodontal disease by taking digital x-rays (to view the bone levels) and measuring the "pockets" of space between your teeth and gums. If bone loss can be seen on the radiographs and/or your pockets are over three millimeters deep, our dentists will likely render a gum disease diagnosis. We take a personalized approach to gum disease treatment and will recommend the ideal option based upon the severity of the condition. Gingivitis and periodontitis are generally addressed with a nonsurgical form of care while advanced periodontitis may require surgical treatment. Our team will work closely with you to treat gum disease and help preserve your oral structures and overall wellness.
Maintaining Periodontal Health
Following your gum disease treatment, a member of our staff will provide aftercare instructions based on the type of care you received. Our New Braunfels, TX dentists may then recommend a periodontal maintenance program, which includes very thorough dental cleanings every 3 – 4 months. These visits can help keep harmful plaque and bacterial buildup to a minimum and assist in preventing the disease from progressing. In addition to these more frequent cleaning visits, which replace biannual prophylaxis services, we recommend maintaining thorough brushing and flossing habits each day to help preserve your oral health.
Is Treatment Covered by Insurance?
Gum disease treatments may be covered in part under some dental insurance plans, but these amounts can vary according to individual plans and providers. A member of our billing team will review your benefits ahead of time and explain any estimated out-of-pocket costs. To help make your care as affordable as possible, ACE Dental of New Braunfels takes a variety of payment options. We can also help you explore and apply for low-interest medical financing solutions.
Protect Your Health From Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common yet progressive oral health concern that may affect your smile, health, and general well-being. At ACE Dental of New Braunfels, our well-trained team routinely screens for periodontal concerns to identify the condition as early as possible and help you minimize its impact on your overall health. For more on how you can protect your health and smile from periodontal disease, call our New Braunfels, TX office today and schedule your dental exam.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a condition that makes the gums and bone tissue deteriorate and may lead to oral problems.Read
Ways Scaling and Root Planing Can Improve Your Gum Health
Scaling and root planing is an effective procedure performed to treat periodontal disease and improve overall oral wellness.Read
Common Reasons For Having Inflamed Gums
When you notice bleeding gums, you should go to your dentist to get a full exam to see whether gum disease is behind it.Read