When you have gum disease, this could lead to poor oral health and without treatment, even increase the risk of tooth loss. But our team can offer treatment to manage periodontal disease and keep your smile strong. In today’s blog, your Overland Park, KS, dentist talks about how we manage periodontal disease.
The Warning Signs of Poor Gum Health
How do you know if you have a smile in need of periodontal treatment? People with gingivitis and gum disease may experience sore, red gums that bleed easily. There could also be swelling and even recession that makes teeth appear longer than usual. When you experience one or more of these potential warning signs, you need to see our team for an exam and possibly treatment. Otherwise, periodontal disease will grow in severity with time, eventually reaching a stage known as periodontitis, which could cause adult tooth loss.
The Scaling and Root Planing Procedure
Our team will start by carefully examining your smile with digital x-rays and intraoral cameras, so we can assess the cause and severity of your periodontal issues. We then create a treatment plan to address the concern. For many, we will offer a deep cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing. The procedure involves our team removing all plaque and tartar from the teeth and exposed roots with an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool. We will numb the smile beforehand as this is more involved than a traditional cleaning. The procedure could take one visit, or possibly two or even four, depending on the severity of your buildup. When we finish removing the harmful buildup, we will polish the teeth to make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to adhere to the teeth, and to keep your smile bright.
Managing the Disease
Following your scaling and root planing procedure, we will suggest actions to help manage the disease and keep your smile whole and healthy. We will likely recommend a traditional cleaning every three to four months to control buildup. In addition, we will discuss proper brushing and flossing habits. We will recommend avoiding tobacco products, and cutting back on the amount of sugar and starch in your diet. If you have any questions about how we treat gum disease with a deep cleaning, or if you have symptoms that need attention, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you enjoy a new year with a healthier and stronger smile!
Schedule An Appointment for Periodontal Treatment
Our team wants to help you enjoy good oral health by managing your gum disease using a scaling and root planing. To schedule an appointment with Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS, call 913-381-2600.