Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a staged condition that starts as gingivitis. In the gingivitis stage, the condition is reversible. However, advanced periodontal disease is only treatable. With periodontal treatment in Farmington Hills, MI, your dentist can lower your risks of severe complications and restore some of your oral health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Gingivitis is a series of infections and inflammation in the soft tissues of the gums and ligaments. Periodontitis (advanced periodontal disease) means that infections and inflammation have penetrated the bones that support your teeth.
Periodontal Disease Symptoms
Symptoms of gingivitis may be subtle initially, so regular checkups with your dentist in Farmington, Hills, MI, are crucial. If you do notice symptoms as gingivitis progresses, you may experience any or all of the following:
- Bleeding gums, notably when brushing and flossing
- Bad breath, even after brushing and flossing
- Loose or mobile teeth
- Red, irritated gums
- Gum pocketing and recession
- Periodic tooth or gum pain
Lowering Gum Disease Risks
Risk factors for gum disease include lack of dental care, poor oral hygiene, smoking or tobacco use, family history, and hormone changes. Despite the risk factors, you can beat the odds through healthy habits.
Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings. Brush and floss regularly. Give up smoking.
If you visit the dentist regularly, we can diagnose gum disease during the reversible stage!
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Your dentist will assess your level of disease and create a custom treatment regimen to address it.
Treatments may include:
Custom at-home oral hygiene planning- Topical antibiotics or other medications
- Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing are in-office treatments that remove tartar from below the gumline and smooth tooth roots to encourage gum tissue to adhere better to the teeth.
Periodontal Treatment Near Me
To learn more about periodontal treatment or to arrange a consultation with the dentist, call our office today. We are happy to work with CareCredit financing.