Many studies have shown a link between gum disease, or periodontitis, and poor health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease. In addition to being the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world, untreated gum disease can affect the rest of your body. The good news is that with early detection and treatment, periodontitis doesn’t have to ruin your smile and your health. Learn more about how Ridgetop Dental Group in Northern VA provides periodontal therapy for patients to overcome gum disease.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease, also called periodontitis, is the disease of the gum tissues that surround the teeth and the jawbone that anchors the teeth in place. It starts with bacteria in the mouth, and, if untreated, it can end with tooth loss.
Stages Of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums without loss of bone. It is a mild and reversible form of periodontitis, but not all gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. Plaque builds up on teeth and gums become inflamed, but teeth are still firmly planted in sockets. If left untreated, gum inflammation can lead to gum disease.
Periodontal disease is when the destruction has reached the underlying bone. The pockets created by gum inflammation deepen and more gum tissue and bone are affected. Eventually, due to loss of support, the teeth can become loose and fall out.
Gum Disease Treatment in Northern VA
Ridgetop Dental Group uses a variety of treatments for gum disease depending on each patient’s unique situation. For early signs of gum disease, Dr. Datta may recommend some personalized tips for improving your at-home oral hygiene. Some patients benefit from dental cleanings every 3 months, or you may be advised to floss more carefully.
For patients with gingivitis, the first and most reversible stage of gum disease, antibacterial rinses can be effective. These rinses are used as part of your at-home oral hygiene routine to keep bacteria from spreading further in the teeth and gums.
Advanced gum disease may require scaling and root planing, which is an extensive cleaning and removal of built-up plaque from the tooth roots and gum line. This treatment is required when there is substantial diseased tissue harboring bacteria.
Many patients benefit from laser dentistry to treat advanced gum disease to remove diseased tissue. A thin dental laser is used to minimize pain and recovery time, increase accuracy, and promote natural healing.
Periodontal Therapy in Northern VA
Ridgetop Dental Group uses state-of-the-art technology and our dentists have advanced training in gum disease treatment techniques. Schedule your appointment online or call our office to repair your smile and protect your health.