Periodontal Disease Treatment

Gum Disease Treatment and Prevention in Allen Park

gum disease Allen Park dentist near DetroitMany people think that healthy teeth are the only factor behind a great smile. Most people overlook the fact that our gums also need to be taken good care of. Good dental health, healthy teeth and gums definitely go hand in hand in creating the perfect smile.

Around half of all the people in the United States are estimated to be affected by some stage of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. The effects of gum disease may not be immediately obvious in their early stages, but they can cause many dangerous complications later on if you ignore them.

Dangers of Periodontal Disease in Detroit:

  • May increase the chances that you will contract heart disease.
  • Can contribute to getting diabetes later on.
  • Can result in the eventual loss of teeth.
  • Lead to numerous other dental health issues.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Man with red swollen gums an early sign of gum disease in Allen ParkThe earliest stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, often has few or no symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, receding gums, permanent bad breath (halitosis), loose teeth, or a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite. In advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the symptoms may include severe pain or even tooth loss. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions as well, so it is important to see your Allen Park dentist if you suspect you have gum disease. Dr. Szalai will be able to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. If you have noticed any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from periodontal disease and it is best to consult your Detroit area dentist as soon as possible.

We use OralDNA Labs to access salivary diagnostics to gather particular information pertaining to periodontal disease and oral HPV, allowing us to diagnose and treat periodontal disease more accurately and effectively.

How is Gum Disease Treated in Allen Park?

periodontal disease treatment in Dearborn MI and Allen ParkIf gum disease is still in its early stages, then we may suggest nonsurgical treatment such as tooth scaling or root planning in order to remove deposits of bacteria-causing plaque and tartar in your gums to make sure you have good dental health. In some cases, the dentist may also use antibiotics to help reduce the bacterial infection. In early stages of gum disease, called gingivitis, the treatment is focused on removing plaque and tartar and maintaining good oral hygiene at home.

However, for more complicated and severe cases, surgery may be necessary in order to address the damage to your gums caused by gum disease bacteria and to ensure the growth of healthy bone and tissue. In more advanced stages of periodontitis, the treatment may include surgery to remove infected tissue, bone or tooth in order to stop the progression of the disease.

In both cases, the dentist will also educate the patient on proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, to help prevent the disease from recurring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is periodontal disease and how is it treated?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and the surrounding tissue that supports the teeth. Periodontal disease in Detroit is typically treated with a process called scaling and root planing, which involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and roots. In some cases, antibiotics may also be used to help reduce the bacterial infection. In early stages of gum disease, called gingivitis, the treatment is focused on removing plaque and tartar and maintaining good oral hygiene at home. In more advanced stages of periodontitis, the treatment may include surgery to remove infected tissue, bone or tooth in order to stop the progression of the disease.
How often do I need to have scaling and root planing done?
The frequency of scaling and root planing periodontal treatment depends on the severity of your gum disease and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. Allen Park dentist, Dr. Szalai, will be able to recommend a schedule for future cleanings based on the condition of your gums.
What should I expect during a scaling and root planing procedure at Allen Park Dental Care?
Scaling and root planing is typically done by a dentist or a dental hygienist. During the procedure at our practice near Dearborn, our specialist will use precision instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and roots. The procedure may be done over several visits, depending on the severity of the gum disease.
Can gum disease be prevented?
Yes, gum disease can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your Allen Park dentist for regular teeth cleanings and dental check-ups. Avoiding tobacco use and managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes can also help to prevent gum disease.
Can gum disease be reversed?
In its early stage, gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with proper oral hygiene, regular professional teeth cleaning and a change of oral habits. In advanced stages of periodontitis, periodontal treatment can stop the progression of the disease, but it may not be possible to completely reverse the damage that has already occurred, such severe tooth damage. That is when our tooth replacement options may be considered.

Consulting Your Detroit Dentist About Gum Disease

Allen Park Dental Care dentists take periodontal disease and gum disease treatment seriously. We will take care of you every step of the way to make sure your dental health is all it should be. Contact us now to schedule an appointment and reclaim optimal dental health if you are in Detroit, from Allen Park to Dearborn MI.