Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or sensitive teeth might be early warning signs of gum disease. At Madison Dental Care, we offer comprehensive periodontal treatments to stop disease progression and restore your oral health. Call our periodontal professionals in Madison at (256) 772-2626 today to schedule your consultation with our dentists.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, begins with bacterial growth in your mouth. This can be due to a number of reasons including poor oral hygiene and can progress to serious infection if left untreated. Without intervention, this condition can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and other oral health complications. Early detection and treatment are vital for preventing long-term damage to your smile.
Signs You May Need Treatment
Gum disease often presents through symptoms such as:
Swollen or tender gums
Bleeding during brushing or flossing
Persistent bad breath
Receding gums
Loose teeth
Changes in bite alignment
Periodontal Treatment Options
Scaling and Root Planing
For early to moderate gum disease, scaling and root planing serve as the foundation of periodontal treatment. This deep cleaning process removes bacteria and calculus from below the gum line while smoothing root surfaces to promote healing. We typically recommend scaling and root planing when X-rays show tartar buildup below the gums or when periodontal pockets measure deeper than four millimeters.
During scaling, our Madison dental team removes plaque and tartar buildup from both above and below your gum line. Root planing follows, smoothing rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria tend to gather. This treatment typically requires two to four visits, with each session focusing on different sections of your mouth.
Antibiotic Therapy
Used in conjunction with other treatments, antibiotic therapy helps eliminate persistent infections and reduce inflammation in your gums. Antibiotic therapy is often prescribed following scaling and root planing, particularly for patients with deeper pockets or persistent infection.
We may apply antibiotics directly to affected areas or prescribe oral medication depending on your needs. The local application involves placing time-release antibiotics directly into periodontal pockets after cleaning.
Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser therapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat gum disease. Laser therapy works well for moderate to advanced cases of periodontitis, especially when traditional cleaning hasn't achieved the desired results.
Our dental laser precisely targets infected tissue while preserving healthy gum structure. This treatment promotes natural healing and typically involves less discomfort than traditional surgical methods.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
For advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgical intervention may provide the best path to healing. Pocket reduction surgery becomes necessary when deep gum abscesses persist after other treatments or when significant bone loss has occurred.
During this procedure, we gently fold back the gum tissue to remove deep deposits of tartar and smooth damaged bone. The gums are then secured in a position that makes it easier to keep teeth clean.
Bone and Soft Tissue Grafts
Some patients require the rebuilding of lost bone or gum tissue to fully restore their oral health. Grafting may be needed when severe gum disease has caused significant tissue or bone loss, particularly if teeth have become loose or gum recession is serious.
Grafting procedures use donor tissue or synthetic materials to regenerate lost bone and gum tissue. These treatments help stabilize teeth and improve both function and appearance.
Prevention and Maintenance
Success in treating gum disease requires ongoing care and maintenance. At Madison Dental Care, we create personalized maintenance plans including:
Call our Madison office at (256) 772-2626 to learn more about protecting your periodontal health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Common signs include bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, and receding gums. However, early stages may show no obvious symptoms, which makes regular dental check-ups essential for early detection and treatment.
Is gum disease treatment covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for periodontal treatments, though coverage levels vary. Your dentist can help you understand your benefits and discuss payment options before beginning treatment.
How long does gum disease treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on the severity of your condition and the chosen treatment method. Initial therapy typically requires two to four visits, while maintenance may involve regular follow-up appointments every three to four months.
Can gum disease return after treatment?
While treatment can effectively control gum disease, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular maintenance appointments are vital for preventing recurrence. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions for long-term care.
Does gum disease treatment hurt?
Modern treatments are significantly more comfortable than in the past. Local anesthesia and other sedation options can be used to ensure your comfort throughout any procedure. Any post-procedure soreness can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Restore Your Healthy Smile Today
Don't let gum disease compromise your oral health any longer. Our experienced dental team at Madison Dental Care combines proven treatments with modern technology to deliver optimal results. We welcome patients from Madison and the surrounding communities of Huntsville, Athens, and Decatur at our conveniently located Palmer Plaza office.
Take the first step toward better periodontal health by calling (256) 772-2626 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Burgess, Dr. Roth, or Dr. Randall.
To Schedule Your Appointment (256) 772-2626
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