Early Diagnosis and Aggressive Treatment
Periodontal disease begins when the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums becomes filled with bacteria, plaque, and tartar. This causes inflammation in the surrounding tissues, and when these irritants go unnoticed, they cause damage to your gums and, eventually, the bone that supports your teeth.
At Williamsburg Center for Dental Health, we can diagnose this disease early, known as gingivitis. If the periodontal disease progresses into a later stage, we offer customized treatment plans, which include:
- Regular cleanings
- At-home oral hygiene counseling
- Scaling and root planing
- Periodontal surgery
- Arestin
Our patients often wonder about our recommendations for treating periodontal disease (gum infection). We want them to understand the changes that can affect gum and bone health even while seeing the hygienist every six months.
- Bacteria: If you have not been properly cleaning the bacteria off by brushing, flossing, and using a water pick, bacteria could be building up, which causes your gum tissue to break down.
- Mechanical Stress: Grinding or clenching your teeth increases the mechanical stress on the gums and bone.
- Environmental Factors: If your health status has changed and you are taking new medications, this could cause inflammation, which creates the pockets and bleeding characteristic of periodontal disease.
What Happens After Periodontal Treatment?
Gum disease will not go away on its own. Because it is an infection, it needs to be treated professionally with an antibiotic in combination with scaling and root planing, also known as periodontal therapy.
Scaling and root planing remove much of the plaque and tartar above and below your gum line, where bacteria produce toxins that irritate your gums and cause infections. Although your hygienist removes the plaque and tartar, bacteria can remain at the base of the gum pocket, which will hinder healing.
To combat this bacteria, we use Arestin, which we administer directly into the infected areas or “pockets” in your gums.
Periodontal disease is important to treat so that you maintain the health of the bone supporting your teeth and prevent heart disease. We want to work with you to ensure that you are taking all the measures you need to maintain good dental health. You and your health are very important to us!
Gum Therapy FAQs
Gum disease is a serious condition with effects that can spread throughout the entire body. Learn more.
What’s the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is early-stage gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup. It is marked by redness and bleeding but is reversible with proper care. Untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, where infection damages gum tissue and supporting bone, potentially causing tooth loss. While gingivitis affects only the gums, periodontitis impacts deeper structures. Both require professional intervention, but periodontitis needs more extensive therapy.
Does periodontal therapy hurt?
Most non-surgical treatments (like scaling) cause minimal discomfort, though some sensitivity may occur, especially with exposed roots. Local anesthesia ensures comfort during deeper cleanings or surgeries. Post-treatment soreness typically lasts a few days and can be managed with OTC pain relievers. Modern techniques and sedation options make procedures far more comfortable than patients expect.
Can gum disease be cured completely?
While gingivitis is fully reversible, advanced periodontitis can only be controlled, not cured. Therapy aims to halt progression and regenerate lost tissue where possible. Patients can maintain stable oral health long-term with consistent professional care and excellent home hygiene. Neglect allows disease to reactivate, so ongoing maintenance is essential.
Will my teeth become loose after treatment?
Some temporary looseness may occur as inflamed tissues tighten during healing. However, properly treated teeth become more stable as the infection clears and gums reattach. If looseness persists, splinting or additional therapy may be needed. Teeth severely compromised by bone loss may still require extraction.
Can receded gums grow back?
Gum tissue does not regenerate naturally once lost, but procedures like gum grafting can cover exposed roots. Early intervention provides the best cosmetic and functional outcomes. Without treatment, gum recession typically progresses, leading to increased sensitivity and potential tooth loss.
Can children get gum disease?
While less common, children can develop gingivitis, and teenagers may experience early periodontitis, especially with poor oral hygiene or underlying medical conditions. Juvenile periodontitis is an aggressive form requiring immediate treatment. Regular pediatric dental visits help prevent and detect gum issues early.