Periodontal Care
Milwaukie, OR
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, encompasses a range of inflammatory conditions that affect the periodontium: the soft tissues and bone surrounding your teeth. Symptoms can vary from tender or bleeding gums to mouth ulcers and, in severe cases, tooth loss. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease, is marked by gum inflammation. Without proper oral hygiene and professional care, gingivitis can progress to gum recession, loss of teeth, or deterioration of the supporting bone structure. Early detection and treatment are essential. If you are experiencing any signs of gum disease, schedule a check-up with Sue Walker Dentistry today.
What Does It Mean When My Gums Bleed?
Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing may indicate gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease. Early-stage gum disease, gingivitis, typically presents with red, swollen, or tender gums. As the disease progresses, you may notice gum detachment from teeth, receding gums, or even bone loss around teeth. These are signs of advanced gum disease, which requires prompt treatment from a dental professional. If you suspect you may have gum disease, contact Sue Walker Dentistry to schedule an evaluation and begin appropriate care.
Best Treatment for Gum Disease
Treatment for gum disease depends on its severity, your overall health, lifestyle, and past responses to dental care. Non-surgical therapies are often the first line of treatment. Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, helping to prevent bacteria accumulation and slow gum recession. Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline while smoothing rough areas on tooth roots, promoting gum reattachment. For more advanced cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to restore the health of gum and bone tissues. Antibiotic therapy can be used alone or alongside surgical or nonsurgical treatments to control bacterial growth and support healing. Our dental professionals will recommend the treatment plan best suited to your condition and overall oral health.
Tobacco Use Causes Gum Disease
Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of developing gum disease. According to the American Dental Association, smoking can cause gingival recession, delayed healing after periodontal procedures, oral cancer, mucosal lesions, and tooth discoloration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that smoking weakens the immune system, making it more difficult to fight gum infections. Smokeless tobacco also damages oral tissues, contributing to gingival keratosis, gum recession, and enamel erosion. Avoiding tobacco is an important step in preventing and managing periodontal disease.
How to Prepare for Treatment of Gum Disease
At Sue Walker Dentistry, most periodontal procedures can be performed in-office. If you use tobacco, discuss cessation options with your dentist to improve treatment outcomes. Healing times and procedure lengths vary depending on the type and extent of treatment, as well as your overall health. Local anesthetics are commonly used to minimize discomfort during procedures. Call us at 971-447-4385 to schedule a checkup with one of our dentists. Our team is committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health and providing a personalized treatment plan to address your periodontal needs effectively.