Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a condition that affects the tissues and the teeth. It is caused by the buildup of bacteria and plaque on the teeth, which can lead to inflammation and eventually damage to the gums, bone and other structures that hold the teeth in place. With periodontal treatment here at Reston Dental Care, we work with you to prevent further damage and restore the health of your gums and teeth.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
Dr. Jenny Cheung and associates may recommend you come in for an evaluation for periodontal disease if you have:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums, which make teeth look longer than usual
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Changes in the way partial dentures fit
Types of Periodontal Treatment
There are several types of periodontal treatments we might recommend depending on your individual needs. Here are some common treatments we may perform and what you can expect from them:
- Scaling and Root Planing — This is a nonsurgical procedure that involves cleaning the teeth below the gumline to remove the buildup of bacteria and plaque. Our team will use special tools to scrape away the buildup and smooth out the surfaces of the teeth to prevent further buildup. You may receive a local anesthetic to numb the area during the procedure. After the procedure, your gums may be sore for a few days, and you may be advised to avoid hard or crunchy foods.
- Laser Therapy — This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums. The laser can selectively target diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact. The procedure is typically painless and may require little to no anesthesia. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, but this usually subsides within a few days.
- Gum Surgery — In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgery may be necessary to restore the health of the gums and teeth. Types of periodontal surgery include gum grafting, pocket reduction surgery and bone grafting. Our dentists will discuss the specifics of the surgery with you and what to expect during and after the procedure.
Benefits of Periodontal Treatment
With periodontal treatment, you can:
- Reduce the risk of tooth loss
- Improve your oral health and hygiene
- Decrease the risk of systemic health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes
- Enjoy fresher breath and a better-looking smile
Contact Us Today!
If you are experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease, it is important to seek treatment from a dentist as soon as possible. Ignoring the signs of gum disease can lead to further damage and potentially irreversible tooth loss. By seeking timely treatment, you can improve your oral health, reduce the risk of gum disease recurrence and prevent other health complications. Take care of your oral health and schedule a visit with our dentists and team today at 703-689-0110 for periodontal treatment in Reston, Virginia.
