Periodontal Therapy For Gum Disease In Troy, MI

Protecting Your Smile’s Foundation

Periodontal gum disease is an uncomfortable condition that can cause pain and swelling in the mouth and impact the gums and bone as well. Your gums act as a barrier against bacteria and protect the roots of your teeth. Focusing on your periodontal care protects you from tooth loss as well as other health issues such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.

Periodontal gum disease is incredibly common, preventable, and treatable. At Laser Family Dental, we apply high-quality periodontal care to ensure our patients have a disease-free, strong, and functional smile that will last a lifetime.

woman in a dental chair holding her jaw in pain

How Periodontal Disease Begins

Like other parts of your body, your mouth has a unique microbiome filled with naturally-occurring bacteria that keep your body healthy, helping break down food and deliver nutrients to your body via the bloodstream. However, when food, debris, and an influx of sugar are left for too long in our mouth, the microbiome can become unbalanced, which can lead to progressively worsening issues.

First, the bacteria accumulate on the surface of your teeth and form a sticky substance called plaque. Daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing after meals can prevent the build-up of plaque and remove small amounts from your teeth. However, even with the most diligent regime, only professional cleanings can ensure all the surfaces of your teeth are reached.

If plaque is not removed, the bacteria die and harden into tartar (calculus), which is only removable with specialized dental equipment. Over time, the plaque and tartar eat away at the enamel, the protective layer of the teeth. Once the enamel is penetrated, the tooth will begin to decay. The bacteria will create hollow spaces in the teeth (cavities) which, if left untreated, can deepen all the way to the root of the tooth and infect the gums which is the first stage of periodontal disease.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Biannual dental visits are beneficial because they allow us to catch problems before they worsen, and if combined with a consistent oral hygiene routine, can help keep your mouth plaque-free all year. Periodontal disease occurs in stages so it’s imperative to get treated as soon as possible.

The first stage is also known as gingivitis—in this stage, the gums may bleed when brushed and become inflamed or red. It is the only stage of periodontal disease that is reversible.

In the early (or slight) periodontitis stage, the bacteria has infected the supporting bone structures of the teeth. The bacteria have become so aggressive that it can even lead to bone loss.

In moderate periodontitis, the bacteria are able to invade your bloodstream via the vessels in your gums. This can not only impact your immune system but result in gum sensitivity, tooth shifting, and tooth loss as well.

In the advanced periodontitis stage, you can develop severe halitosis (bad breath) and experience pain while chewing. Your gums may also begin to ooze, swell, and ache. Your risk of bone and tooth loss increases during the advanced stage too.

A major concern of people with this condition is the potential for tooth loss. In order to prevent this, proper treatments should be applied as soon as possible.

There are two types of therapies available: surgical and nonsurgical. Dr. Bachuri will examine the stage of the disease and the condition of your gums to determine which solution is right for you.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Antibiotics: A treatment plan of antibiotics can help treat the infection brought on by bacteria. Dr. Bachuri may prescribe topical antibiotics to rub on the gums or an oral antibiotic to totally eliminate the infection.

Scaling: Scaling removes tartar and build-up on the teeth and just under the gums. This can be accomplished via several methods such as with instruments, lasers, or ultrasonic devices.

Root Planing: Smoothing the root surface makes it harder for bacteria to build up and develop. This will reduce inflammation and will promote faster healing times.

Surgical Treatments

Tissue-stimulating proteins: This process involves applying a gel to the infected tooth root so that it will stimulate enamel and healthy bone and tissue growth.

Guided tissue regeneration: In the event that the bone has been impacted by the disease, this process could promote regrowth. At this point, teeth may already be missing, but new bone growth may make it possible to have implants placed.

Soft tissue grafts: Soft tissue grafts (either from the roof of your mouth or another source) will provide your teeth with a healthier foundation. The gum line is the first thing impacted by periodontal disease, so tissue grafts are effective measures to help it maintain its place. A graft will also go a long way in reducing the chances of tooth loss.

woman laying in a dental chair speaking to a dental assistant

Bone grafting (hard tissue grafts): Bone grafts are done specifically to keep teeth in place. The graft may include fragments of existing bone or be a composition of a variety of materials.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

While a treatment plan is imperative once the disease has taken root, periodontal disease is largely preventable. Two of the best things you can do to help yourself avoid this condition are to take care of your teeth and schedule regular visits with Dr. Bachuri.

One of the most important steps to ensuring effective treatment for periodontal disease is getting diagnosed quickly. Don’t delay an examination— identifying the problem early may be the one thing that prevents tooth loss and future dental issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Periodontal disease will get progressively worse if left untreated. You can take matters into your own hands by creating a quality oral hygiene routine, including regular flossing and brushing. You should also take care to schedule one or two dental exams per year so that we can monitor an existing condition or make an early diagnosis.

When you visit Laser Family Dental, we ensure a comprehensive approach to your dental care. During every routine visit, we thoroughly examine your teeth, mouth, jaw, and gums. If we see any signs of periodontitis, we’ll discuss treatment options to get your health back on track.

Experience High-Quality Periodontal Care

Periodontal disease certainly doesn’t have to be the end of the world, however, it is a condition that should be treated as soon as possible. Your oral health is a very important part of your well-being, and we are here to help correct any issues that arise. If you would like to know more about this condition or have questions about your oral health, don’t hesitate to contact us at (248) 250-9333 or fill out our online form. Our trained staff is ready to answer your questions and schedule you for an exam. Reach out to us today to start down the path to a healthier smile!

Periodontal Therapy in Troy, MI