Did you know that gum disease doesn’t just affect your smile? it can impact your overall health too. Studies show that untreated gum disease is linked to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and even pregnancy complications. It’s also the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
But here’s the good news: when caught early, gum disease is treatable and even preventable. At Derby Dental in Austin, TX, we help you keep your gums healthy and your smile strong. During every visit, we carefully check your gums for signs of trouble and work with you to create a personalized plan to stop gingivitis in its tracks.
We also offer restorative treatments to replace missing teeth and repair your smile if gum disease has already caused damage. Let’s work together to protect your gums, your teeth, and your health!
Periodontal Disease Treatments at Derby Dental
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing may be all you need if our dentists find gum disease in its early stages. This two-step treatment is like a deep cleaning but focuses on your gum line. First, our hygienist uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar. Then, we smooth the roots of your teeth to prevent bacteria from building up again. This will also help your gums heal.
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, we use antibiotics to kill bacteria in hard-to-reach areas. During your treatment, we apply a medicine called Arestin to your gums. This slowly releases over two weeks, killing bacteria deep in the gum tissue.
We can also prescribe PerioScience rinses and other products for you to use at home. These help boost the natural bacteria-fighting agents in your saliva to better fight infections.
The Effects of Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause serious problems if it’s not treated. The effects can get worse as the disease progresses, so it’s important to stop it before it harms your oral health. Taking preventive steps is the best way to avoid these issues.
There are three stages of gum disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Regular check-ups are key because patients don’t always notice symptoms in the early stages.
Gingivitis (Early Stage)
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It happens when plaque builds up on your teeth, causing inflammation. You might notice redness, swelling, or bleeding when brushing or flossing. The good news is that you can reverse gingivitis with good oral care.
Signs include:
- Swollen and Red Gums: Gingivitis often causes gums to look red and feel puffy.
- Bleeding Gums: Gums bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can lead to periodontitis. The infection goes deeper into the tissues that support your teeth during this stage. You might experience gum recession and notice pockets forming between your teeth and gums. Bacteria causes more serious symptoms in these pockets.
Signs include:
- Bad Breath: Ongoing bad breath caused by bacteria.
- Receding Gums: Gums pull back, exposing the roots of your teeth.
- Pockets Forming: Spaces form between your gums and teeth, trapping bacteria.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Teeth become more sensitive to hot or cold.
Advanced Periodontitis (Late Stage)
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage. It can cause lasting damage to your gums and the bone that holds your teeth in place. It can lead to tooth loss without treatment. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for catching this advanced stage before it’s too late.
Signs include:
- Loose Teeth: Teeth become loose as the supporting tissues weaken.
- Tooth Loss: In severe cases, teeth may fall out.
- Bone Loss: Ongoing infection can cause bone loss, which may change the shape of your face.
Systemic Effects
Research shows a link between gum disease and other health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. Experts are still studying these connections, but good oral health is always important for your overall health. Bacteria from gum disease can enter your bloodstream and affect your heart and other organs. To lower your risk of these issues, take care of your teeth and gums by brushing, flossing, eating a balanced diet, and visit your dentist.
If you think you might have gum disease or are showing signs of it, contact us today at 512-795-0128. You can also schedule an appointment online anytime. We welcome new patients from Westover Hills, Northwest Hills, Allandale, Bull Creek, Highland Park, and nearby areas.