Periodontal disease is a gum disease, which occurs when your gums get affected by bacteria. It is one of the leading conditions resulting in teeth loss in adults. If not treated early, it could become worse and affect the nearby tissues and the jaw.

Gum disease is a condition that occurs as a result of poor dental hygiene. It happens when plaque and tartar build-up, leading to inflammation of the gums. If the bacteria get absorbed into the bloodstream, they can affect body organs, such as the kidney and liver. Thus, it is essential to visit your dentist to prevent the disease from progressing.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Some of the symptoms of gum disease include:

• Severe toothache
  
  

• Bad breath
  
  

• Bleeding gums either after brushing, flossing, or eating
  
  

• Red and swollen gums
  
  

• Loose teeth
  
  

• Discolored teeth
  
  

• Loss of appetite
  
  

• Receding gums
  
  
  

With early diagnosis, your dentists may suggest non-surgical therapy options. Some of the options include scaling and root planing and antibiotics.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics can remove bacteria in areas where it is difficult to reach using a toothbrush. If misaligned teeth cause gum disease, your dentist may recommend orthodontic bite adjustment. Bite adjustment can align the bite and reduce excess stress on the gums and teeth, contributing to gum infections.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planning are methods used in professional teeth cleaning. Scaling is for cleaning tartar buildup below your gumline. Root planing removes any infections on the tooth root, allowing the gums to heal. So, the two can remove any inflammation caused by bacteria.

If your gum disease has progressed, you may undergo surgical treatments, such as:

• Soft tissue grafts
  
  

• Dental implants
  
  

• Pocket reduction surgery used to reduce the space between the gums and the tooth
  
  

• Crown lengthening surgery to expose more of the enamel
  
  
  

Benefits of Periodontal Therapy

Some of the benefits of periodontal therapy include:

Fresh Breath

Bad breath is a sign that you have gum disease. It is due to a lack of proper oral hygiene, resulting in plaque and tartar buildup below your gumline. Periodontal therapy can reduce bad breath and leave you with fresh breath.

A Great Smile

Your gums are essential in the appearance of your smile because they frame the shape of your teeth. Gum disease can cause your gums to bleed and swell, and that can discourage you from smiling. Luckily, with periodontal therapy, your gums remain clean and align with your teeth, complimenting your smile.

Furthermore, with periodontal therapy, your teeth get cleaned to reduce discoloration.

Gets Rid of Potential Health Issues

Your oral health can tell a lot about your overall health. Through periodontal therapy, your dentist can notice any potential health issues. If not treated early, bacteria may reach your bloodstream affecting other body organs such as your liver and kidney. With gum therapy, these conditions can get prevented.

Relief from Pain

Infected gums can be tender, sore, and painful due to bleeding. It can make you feel so uncomfortable even when brushing or flossing your teeth, which can worsen your condition. Through periodontal therapy, these gum disease symptoms may get alleviated.

Learn more about the benefits of periodontal therapy, contact Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry in Sherman, TX at (903) 708-6400 to schedule an appointment.