Early signs of gum disease often include red, swollen, or tender gums that bleed when you brush or floss. You might also notice persistent bad breath or changes in how your gums look around your teeth. Because early gum disease can develop without significant pain, you should schedule regular dental checkups.
Gum Disease Treatment
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Cost
Your gum disease treatment cost depends on the severity of your condition, the areas requiring care, and the procedures recommended for your gums.
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Procedure Duration
Deep cleaning typically takes one to two hours per appointment, depending on your gum health and the areas treated, and may require multiple visits.
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Comfort Measures
You may experience mild discomfort or tenderness during treatment, but gentle techniques and local anesthesia can help keep you comfortable.
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Gum Disease Treatment in Houma, LA
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of your teeth. It develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline, causing inflammation and infection. Poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, genetics, and certain health conditions can increase your risk. Early signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and gum tenderness.
Without treatment, gum disease can progress from mild gingivitis to more advanced periodontitis, potentially leading to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, early detection and professional treatment can help you avoid these problems. Depending on your needs, treatment may include professional cleanings, deep cleanings, and ongoing periodontal maintenance.
By addressing gum disease promptly and maintaining good oral hygiene habits, you can preserve your natural teeth and support your overall health.
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The Process
- Initial examination: Your dentist examines your gums, measures periodontal pockets, and may take X-rays to check for bone loss.
- Treatment planning: Your dental team recommends care based on the severity of your gum disease and your oral health needs.
- Scaling: Plaque, tartar, and bacteria are removed from your teeth and below your gum line.
- Root planing: Your tooth roots are smoothed to discourage buildup and help your gums heal and reattach.
- Additional care: Antibacterial treatments may be recommended to help control infection and support healing.
02.
Next Steps
- Follow aftercare instructions: Follow your dentist’s recommendations to support gum healing and manage temporary tenderness.
- Maintain daily oral hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss regularly to remove plaque and reduce bacterial buildup.
- Use recommended rinses: Use any prescribed mouth rinses as directed to help control bacteria and promote healthier gums.
- Attend follow-up visits: Schedule regular dental checkups so your dentist can monitor healing and identify recurring inflammation.
- Watch for changes: Contact us if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, discomfort, or other returning symptoms.
FAQ
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What are the early warning signs of gum disease?
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Can gum disease be reversed with treatment?
If you have gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene can often reverse the inflammation. More advanced periodontal disease can cause permanent damage to the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. However, appropriate treatment can help manage infection, limit further damage, and support healthier gums.
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What happens if gum disease is left untreated?
Without treatment, gum disease can progress from mild inflammation to a serious infection that affects the tissues and bone that support your teeth. Your gums may begin pulling away from your teeth, creating deeper pockets where bacteria accumulate. Over time, you may experience gum recession, loose teeth, bone deterioration, or eventual tooth loss.
Related Services
Dental Checkup
While brushing and flossing have a huge impact on your oral health, regular checkups are also essential. Plaque that stays on the teeth hardens into tartar, and cannot be easily brushed away. A checkup pairs a professional cleaning with an exam so we can remove that buildup, look for decay and gum changes, and screen the soft tissues of your mouth.
Dental Checkup
Emergency Dentistry
When a tooth breaks, an abscess forms, or pain keeps you up at night, you need care. We offer same-day help for urgent problems, whether a severe toothache, a knocked-out or loose tooth, a cracked tooth, swelling, bleeding that will not stop, or a lost crown.
Emergency Dentistry