Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is the result of infection to the tissues that hold your teeth in place. As bacteria gets trapped between the teeth, it creates plaque that hardens and swells the gum. The disease is usually triggered by improper brushing, flossing, or generally bad oral hygiene.

What are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?

The most common symptoms of gum disease include:

• Gums that easily bleed when you brush your teeth
• Sore, red, or swollen gums
• Frequent and untreatable sour breath

If left untreated, periodontal disease can worsen and lead to frequent bleeding, swelling, and even tooth loss in more advanced cases.

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease?

The best prevention for periodontal disease is to maintain regular and thorough oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing at least twice a day.

What Treatments for Periodontal Disease Can I Expect at the Dentist?

There are surgical and non-surgical options for treating periodontal disease. Surgical options are reserved for severe cases and can include:

• Soft tissue grafts
• Bone grafting
• Flap surgery

In most cases, however, your dentist will likely recommend one of the following:

• Scaling to remove tartar and bacteria from the tooth surface or gums
• Root planning to smooth the root surfaces of the teeth
• Antibiotics in either topical or oral form to combat the bacterial infection