Healthy gums support healthy teeth. The gums are important not only for the health of the smile but the aesthetics as well. Dr. Brent Blaylock places significant emphasis on periodontal health and offers a variety of periodontal treatments and gum disease treatments in Durham, NC. We treat bleeding gums, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.
Dr. Blaylock performs a periodontal screening during routine preventive care visits. Your dentist in Durham, NC emphasizes the importance of visiting his office twice a year because it provides him and his staff the opportunity to spot dental problems such as gum disease in the early stages and offer effective conservative treatment that can save future damage or complex dental problems.
For patients who have gum disease, Dr. Blaylock offers periodontal therapy to treat affected areas and restore oral health. Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease and the severity of damage to teeth and/or gum tissue.
About Gum Disease
Often called the “silent disease”, gum disease can go unnoticed by many patients until they come in for a routine preventive care visit or begin to experience the more severe symptoms associated with later-stage disease.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
- Bleeding gums
- Gum pain
- Sore gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
Left untreated, gum disease can threaten the health of the teeth and even be the cause of tooth loss. Visiting our Durham dentist twice per year is important for the prevention of gum disease and associated dental concerns.
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Dr. Blaylock will determine the stage of gum disease as a result of a thorough dental examination and discussion of possible symptoms you may be experiencing. Early-stage gum disease is difficult for most patients to spot and often has no signs or symptoms.
Stages of Gum Disease:
- Gingivitis: early-stage gum disease, gingivitis develops as a result of the build-up of plaque and tartar along the gum line. This process begins to create pockets between the teeth and gums which allow bacteria to get deep into the soft tissues of the mouth and eventually the tooth structure. Gingivitis is often the result of poor oral hygiene and a lack of dental care, but there are additional factors such as genetics and medical conditions that can also place patients at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease.
- Periodontitis: late-stage gum disease is known as periodontitis and may require a more comprehensive treatment approach to restore oral health. Periodontitis can result in complex dental health problems, including tooth loss.
Gum Disease FAQs
Can I quickly cure my gum disease?
Yes. Your dentist can cure your mild to moderate gum disease issues in as little as a few dental visits. You may see improvements after a few days of treatment, but it may take longer for symptoms to go away completely. In most cases, you can cure it within two weeks. However, it may take more visits if your gum disease has progressed to advanced periodontitis. It is important to address your gum health issues as soon as possible to avoid more damage and costly procedures.
Can I cure my periodontal disease at home?
There are ways you can alleviate the symptoms of gum disease at home, but you will not be able to fully cure it without professional treatment from a dentist. Although there is no natural remedy to treat or prevent gum disease, certain remedies may help fight plaque buildup and keep your gums healthy. Try rinsing your mouth with a mixture of baking soda and salt to help quickly remove harmful bacteria after brushing.
Is periodontal therapy treatment painful?
No. Periodontal therapy treatment feels like a deep gum massage. Our modern dental technology coupled with Dr. Blaylock’s compassionate approach ensures that you do not feel pain or discomfort during treatments. We will use a local anesthetic to numb your mouth and greatly reduce the pain you felt before treatment.
What triggers gum disease?
Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and genetics can all trigger gum disease. But the most common cause is plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums and can lead to serious problems if not removed regularly.
Can you have periodontal disease without bleeding gums?
Healthy gums do not bleed. However, the only way to know if you have periodontal disease is to visit your dentist for a check-up. Your dentist will be able to assess the health of your gums and teeth. Your dentist will tell you if you have any signs of periodontal disease. If you have periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Is gum disease hereditary?
Yes, gum disease may be hereditary. Some studies suggest that there may be a link between genes and an increased risk of developing gum disease. However, many other factors can contribute to the development of gum disease, so it is not entirely clear whether or not genetics play a role. If you are concerned about your risk of developing gum disease, it is important to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Early detection and treatment of gum disease is the best way to prevent it from progressing.
Periodontal Therapy Treatments for Gum Disease
Dr. Blaylock will recommend periodontal therapy based on the stage of gum disease that you have, and your overall oral health. In many cases, when gingivitis is present, a procedure called scaling and root planing can successfully restore dental health by removing plaque from the deep pockets of the gums and the tooth roots. In addition, at-home care may be prescribed to keep your gums healthy between visits.
For patients with advanced gum disease, Dr. Blaylock may coordinate treatment with a local specialist who can treat the damaged tissue with surgical treatment options.
Restoring healthy gums is important- the gums support the teeth and are the foundation for lifelong oral health. Give us a call at 984-213-4695, or request an appointment online today.