Gum Disease

Gum disease is primarily caused by accumulation of plaque and tartar. Bacteria and plaque build-up attack the connective tissue attaching the teeth to the bones of the upper and lower arches.  This periodontal attachment plays a crucial role in the stability and health of the teeth. If not treated properly, the condition advances into the further stages of gum disease called periodontitis. The presence and progression of periodontal disease can only be properly diagnosed by your dentist. The condition is evaluated at each recall appointment in conjunction with radiographs and visual exams.

Gingivitis

The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis and manifests itself by inflammation of the soft tissue. At this stage, gingivitis produces subtle signs that can usually only be detected by a trained professional, such as your dentist in Port Saint Lucie. Some symptoms of gingivitis include swollen and tender soft tissue, bleeding during and/or after tooth brushing. Persistent bad breath typically accompanies gingivitis and cannot be removed by brushing alone. Continuous  bad taste in the mouth is always considered a confirmation of the presence of gingivitis, but it may have gastrointestinal origins as well.

Periodontitis

The next stage of gum disease is called periodontitis. As the disease progresses down the tooth root towards the apex or tip of the root, the epithelium and alveolar bone becomes affected. Genetic and systemic factors typically play a role along with bacterial plaque leading to the formation of inflamed gingival pockets, harboring pathogenic organisms and triggers bone loss. The teeth become mobile and are eventually removed if no treatment is done. The tooth mobility is measured if the periodontal disease is advanced. Since bacterial plaque is usually the reason for the development of periodontal disease, the main focus is placed on antimicrobial strategies provided by your dentist in Port Saint Lucie, such as scaling and root planing, in combination with diligent oral hygiene regimens.

Gum And Periodontal Disease Treatment

The goal of gum and periodontal disease treatment is to maintain periodontal health and functional dentition for life. Proper plaque control by the patient and regular hygiene maintenance by your dental professional in Port Saint Lucie, removing the bacterial toxins are the most important factors of periodontal therapy.

Scaling And Root Planing

The treatment of periodontal disease always includes scaling and root planing, as it is the most effective component of proper dental health. The procedure is performed by a dental hygienist and monitored by your dentist. It consists of careful removal of plaque and tartar debris and cleaning of the root surfaces. Scaling and root planing also includes smoothing the surfaces of the roots and removal of bacteria, as well as cleaning of the periodontal pockets. The treatment is typically tolerated well by patients but may require administration of local anesthesia.

Advanced Periodontitis

If non-surgical therapies fail and the patient does not respond to them well, surgical methods may be implemented to assist in restoring the patient's oral health. In severe cases of chronic periodontitis and enhanced bone loss, the patient may be referred to a periodontist specialist for further treatment. However, most patients respond well to non-surgical methods of treatment.

Hassle-Free Appointment

Advanced Smile Institute helps any patients in need of periodontal disease treatment in Port St. Lucie, FL by setting up a hassle-free appointment. We offer convenient hours, competitive prices and high quality dental services. All treatment plans are custom-tailored to the specific needs of our patients. If your are looking to find a dentist or periodontist in Port Saint Lucie, you are encouraged to first visit Advanced Smile Institute and meet our friendly team. Please call or email us now to schedule your hassle-free appointment.