Gum Disease

If you notice that your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding, these could be signs of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. At Wagin Dental, our dentists specialize in effective treatments aimed at catching gum disease early, preventing tooth loss, and addressing other serious oral health issues.

When is gum disease treatment necessary?

When symptoms such as redness, inflammation, or bleeding in your gums become noticeable, it often indicates the presence of gingivitis. Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease and requires immediate attention from your dentist.

If gingivitis is not treated promptly, it can progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis involves the gums pulling away from the teeth and the loss of supporting jawbone structure, which can lead to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.

Effective gum disease treatments at Wagin Dental include:

Effective gum disease treatments at Wagin Dental typically include professional dental cleanings, which remove plaque and tartar buildup that contribute to gum disease. For mild cases, thorough cleaning and improved oral hygiene practices may suffice. In more severe cases, treatments may involve scaling and root planing to clean deep pockets around the teeth and smooth the roots to help gums reattach to the teeth. Antibacterial treatments or mouth rinses may be recommended to control bacterial growth. Wagin Dental may also provide personalized advice on home care routines and regular check-ups to monitor and manage gum health effectively.

Professional Cleanings: Thorough cleanings by our dental hygienists to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which contribute to gum disease.

Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooth the root surfaces to promote healing of the gum tissue.

Antibacterial Treatments: Application of antimicrobial agents to reduce bacterial infection and inflammation in the gums.

Periodontal Maintenance: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor and maintain gum health after treatment.

Our goal is to not only treat existing gum disease but also to educate our patients on proper oral hygiene practices to prevent its recurrence. Early detection and intervention are key to preserving your oral health and preventing the progression of gum disease.

FAQs

Gum disease, which can lead to tooth decay, occurs when plaque spreads from teeth to the underlying gums. Preventing gingivitis involves:

Regular Brushing and Flossing: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing once a day to remove plaque and prevent its buildup.

Healthy Diet: Limit sugary foods and beverages that bacteria thrive on, promoting plaque formation.

Avoiding Smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease and hinders healing.

If you struggle to clean certain areas due to crowding, misalignment, or dental appliances like braces, your dentist may recommend additional preventative treatments.

During routine oral exams, your Wagin Dental dentist checks for gum disease signs. If gingivitis is present, it's typically reversible through:

Professional Cleaning and Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar buildup helps gums heal. Symptoms should subside with continued good oral care.

If gingivitis progresses to periodontitis:

Gum Disease Surgery: In advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures involve accessing gums to remove plaque and halt infection spread.

Tooth Repair or Extraction: Severely affected teeth may require extraction or root canal treatment to salvage functionality and oral health.

Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing gum disease effectively and preserving your teeth and gums.