Healthy gums are the foundation for a healthy mouth. Our dental care team spends considerable time with patients, educating them on gum health and how it impacts their overall health. Periodontal therapy is a restorative dentistry service in our Philadelphia, PA, office. This treatment can address the signs and symptoms of gum disease and help preserve tooth structure.
Gum disease is one of the most common diseases among Americans, affecting as many as three out of every four adults. Not only is it bad for oral health, sometimes leading to tooth loss, but it is also bad for overall health. Numerous studies have established a link between gum disease and chronic diseases like diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. In addition, gum disease increases risks for pregnant women, such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Dr. Conover offers a strong periodontal health program that includes prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. As a cosmetic dentist, Dr. Conover can also address cosmetic gum concerns. He treats common cosmetic concerns, such as a gummy smile, which causes teeth to look short or asymmetrical.
Causes & Symptoms of Gum Disease
One of the leading causes of gum disease is plaque build-up. Plaque is a sticky film made of bacteria that forms in the mouth. It can build around the gum line and between teeth.
Over time, plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Tartar can irritate the gums and lead to an infection, and bacterial buildup can damage the gum tissue and the underlying bone. The only way to remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach places is with regular dental cleanings at our Philadelphia dentist’s office.
There are many contributing factors to gum disease. Patients with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy are more vulnerable to gum disease. Inflammation and changes in hormones can increase gum sensitivity. Other contributing factors may include teeth grinding, tobacco use, and poor nutrition.
Common signs of gum disease to look out for include:
- Red, swollen, or sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores or cuts in the gum
- Bad breath
As soon as you notice changes in your gum health, contact our office. While early stages of gum disease are reversible, it’s impossible to fully reverse moderate and advanced gum disease.
Stages of Gum Disease
There are several stages of gum disease. Knowing these stages and your symptoms will help us determine the right treatment for you:
- Gingivitis, also known as gum inflammation, is the first stage of gum disease. During this stage, you can experience bleeding and irritated gums. A good oral hygiene routine and professional cleanings can reverse gum inflammation.
- Slight Periodontal Disease: You will experience increased pain and discomfort as gum disease develops. The gums will begin to pull away from your teeth during this stage. Regular deep cleanings are required to treat gum disease.
- Moderate Periodontal Disease: As gum disease progresses, you will notice deep gum pockets and chronic gum pain. It’s also common to experience bad breath.
- Advanced Periodontal Disease: You will need surgery if you have advanced gum disease. Teeth loosen, and you can lose your permanent teeth at the final stage of gum disease.
Periodontal Therapy in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Conover may offer several treatment options depending on your gum disease symptoms. If you have early signs of gum disease, like gingivitis, you will benefit from professional cleaning and oral hygiene instruction. Bleeding gums are easily reversible with regular cleaning.
However, deep gum cleaning may be beneficial if you have more serious gum disease. Scaling and root planing are routine cleanings we use together. We provide these cleanings for patients with chronic gum problems.
Before this cleaning, we use a dental anesthetic to make the procedure more comfortable. First, we remove bacterial buildup from the gum pockets and tooth roots. Then, we remove the buildup from the gums and return to the gums to place antibiotics in the gum pockets.
It’s normal to experience gum sensitivity after this treatment. However, deep cleanings will remove the bacteria that create gum pain and inflammation. After your gum cleaning, gently brush and floss.
If you have advanced gum disease, you may require surgery or more advanced treatment, such as bone grafting, gum grafting, or other procedures. In all cases, the earlier the problem is diagnosed and treated, the more predictable and successful the result will be.
How To Prevent Gum Disease
As with most chronic conditions, prevention is the best defense against gum disease. Your visits with us will include a periodontal screening to check for signs of gum disease. In addition to professional care, you should have a healthy, strict, at-home health care routine. This routine should include brushing and flossing after meals, a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Maintain a healthy blood sugar if you have diabetes. Additionally, if you have current heart problems, work with your doctor to keep these problems in check.
Gum Disease FAQs
Learn more about periodontal therapy in Philadelphia, PA, with answers to these commonly asked questions from patients:
What can you not do after a periodontal treatment?
Do not eat or chew until any sedation wears off after your gum treatment. You can accidentally bite your cheeks, lips, or tongue. Once you feel normal sensation in your mouth, stick to softer foods that are easy to chew and gentle on your gums for the next few days.
We also recommend avoiding hot beverages, like coffee or tea, for at least 24 hours. Hot liquids can cause bleeding and may irritate sensitive gum tissue. Instead, try drinking cool or lukewarm beverages until the area has had more time to heal.
What is the first stage of gum therapy?
A dental cleaning is the first step in any gum therapy. During the cleaning, our dentist will remove the first layer of plaque. Then, he will prepare the teeth for the rest of the process.
How painful is gum treatment?
Gum treatment is not painful. While you may experience minor discomfort, there should be no pain. We may use a local anesthetic to ensure you do not feel any pain and are comfortable throughout treatment. If you have sensitive gums, we recommend that you take pain medication after treatment.
Get Gum Treatment Today
Receive periodontal therapy in Philadelphia, PA, from dentist Dr. Conover by calling (215) 395-6076. You can also schedule an appointment online. Let us know if you have current gum problems or questions about treatment. We’re here to help you.