Periodontal (Gum) Tissues

While you may think that tooth loss is expected with aging, all of your teeth can actually last a lifetime. To achieve this goal, you need to avoid periodontal disease caused by harmful bacteria that destroy the tissues around the teeth. Unfortunately, you may not realize you have gum disease, as the symptoms are not always apparent unless diagnosed by a dental professional. 

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

It is vital to understand that you can develop periodontal disease with no obvious symptoms, especially if you are a smoker. Still, some critical signs indicate gum diseases, including:

• Bleeding gums:While brushing, it should be considered a warning sign of gum disease if you notice bleeding of the gums.
• Bad breath: It is easy for plaque to accumulate in the spaces between the teeth, creating a perfect breeding ground for bacteria that release sulphurous compounds, resulting in bad breath.
• Swollen gums:Inflammation of the gums is usually the first visible sign of a periodontal infection.
• Receding gums: If you observe that your teeth look longer than usual, it may be due to the gum tissue that has receded from the enamel, exposing some of your tooth roots.
• Sensitivity:If there is gum recession, the exposed roots may become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
• Abscess: Bacteria can become trapped in a periodontal pocket, and the area will fill with pus, becoming swollen and painful.
• Loose teeth:Periodontal disease can cause loose teeth, bone and tooth loss.

Treatments for Periodontal Disease

• Dental Cleaning

Cleaning the plaque and tartar deposits from the gums will improve oral health and reduce the chances of gum disease. Regular cleanings can offset inflammation already present.

• Scaling and Root Planing

This is a deep dental cleaning process performed under local anesthesia. In a scaling process, the underneath of the gum line is scraped using special tools to remove the entire harmful residue. The root is also planed or smoothed over from any damage to allow the gums to reattach to the teeth.

• Pocket Reduction Surgery

In this surgery, any infected areas in the periodontal tissue are removed. After the affected gum tissue is cleaned, the tissue is put back into position. The root can also be smoothed over to help the gums to reattach.

• Bone Graft

If periodontal disease has affected your gums, your jaw may need strengthening. A strategic bone graft enhances the area and stabilizes the tissue and teeth. The previously infected area is encouraged to regrow new and fresh tissue.

• Guided Tissue Regeneration

When any bone supporting the teeth has been destroyed, it can be fixed with regeneration therapy. It includes placing a tiny piece of gum-like fabric to encourage the growth of gums and bones.  

At Elite Dental LLC, we provide dental solutions to improve your oral health while transforming smiles. Visit our office at 7300 147th St W #108, West St. Paul, MN, or call (952) 432-1716 and schedule an appointment.