Periodontal Treatments: Healthy Gums for Healthy Life

Gum Health Affects Your Overall Health

Periodontal (Gum) disease is not only the leading cause of tooth loss, but also has been show to raise the risk factor for several potential health issues including stroke and heart disease. While gum disease typically begins with gingivitis, half of Americans aged 30 and above (64 million) have a more advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis. It's important to seek periodontal treatments early to maintain overall health.

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease

Sometimes the early stages of periodontal disease can be invisible and painless. However, here is a brief list of some common and noticeable symptoms:

  • Swollen/red gums
  • Tender gums
  • Loose Teeth
  • Toothaches
  • Receding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Bleeding from brushing

The Stages of Periodontal Disease

Stage 1 – Gingivitis

Inflammation from bacteria may cause gums to be red, swell, and bleed. If you have any of these symptoms, we highly recommend you seek treatment as soon as possible. A general dentist can usually intervene when the disease is in the gingivitis stage.

Stage 2 – Periodontitis

Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to the next stage. Periodontitis occurs when gums begin to separate from the teeth leading to infected pockets. Toxins from the bacteria combined with the body’s response to the infection can erode supporting bone and tissue, eventually causing tooth loss. Treatment from a Periodontist is required at this stage.

How can I be sure if I have gum disease?

While the symptoms listed above do not guarantee that you are on your way to Periodontal disease, we highly recommend that you bring any gum issues to our attention. Catching it early is key to stopping it before it has a wider impact. Our highly experienced team of dental professionals will be able to quickly assess your situation and recommend treatment solutions.

Periodontal Treatments

Osseous Surgery

Osseous surgery, sometimes referred to as pocket reduction surgery or gingivectomy, refers to a number of different surgeries aimed at gaining access to the tooth roots to remove tartar and disease-causing bacteria. This approach can reduce bacterial spread, prevent bone loss, enhance the smile, and facilitate more effective home hygiene care.

Ridge Augmentation

A ridge augmentation is often performed following a tooth extraction to help recreate the natural contour of the gums and jaw. Rebuilding the original height and width of the alveolar ridge (bone surrounding tooth roots) is not medically necessary, but may be required for dental implant placement, or for aesthetic purposes.

Scaling and Root Planing

As the most common non-surgical methods to treat gum disease before it becomes severe, scaling and root planning reach where flossing and brushing cannot. A special dental tool is used during the procedure to get down to the roots by removing the bacteria and tartar that have gathered below the gum line. 

Guided Bone and Tissue Regeneration

Guided regeneration can help you regain a healthy gum line and bone structure. Our specialists surgically position barrier membranes under your gums to promote healthy tissue growth and bone regeneration.  

Sinus Lift/Augmentation

Sinus lift/augmentation raises the sinus floor to allow for new bone formation in the upper jaw. Bone is added between the jaw and maxillary sinuses to repair damage from periodontal disease often for the proper placement of implants.

Frenectomy

An abnormally prominent frenum, the small tissue fold in your mouth that connects your lower gums to the bottom of your tongue or that connects your upper gums to your upper lip, may have a negative impact on teeth, gums, and the supporting bone structure. A frenectomy is a short surgery, typically about 15 minutes, to reduce the frenum for a healthier long-term oral environment.

Please contact our team today if you have questions about your gum health. For periodontal treatments or to find the best periodontics near me, we are here to help you achieve and maintain healthy gums and overall oral health. Whether you're searching for periodontal treatments near me or simply need advice on periodontics, our experienced professionals are ready to assist you.

Botox FAQ's

Does Botox hurt?
Are there any side effects of Botox?
Can Botox be used for medical purposes?
Can I combine Botox with other cosmetic treatments?
How long do the effects of Botox last?
What age to start Botox?
What is the rough price of Botox?
Does Botox go away 100%?
What is the 4-hour rule for Botox?
Where is the most painful place to get Botox?
How soon after Botox can you exercise?
Where should Botox not be injected?
How to make Botox work faster?

Meet Your Dentist!

Dr. Bianca Adams, DMD, is a skilled dentist who followed in her father’s footsteps. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from East Carolina University and completed advanced training in orthodontics, cosmetic, implant, and digital dentistry. Dr. B is a member of several prestigious dental associations and enjoys mentoring students and volunteering. In her free time, she loves traveling, spending time with family and friends, and caring for her mini Bernedoodle, Mica.

Connect

with us

We look forward to meeting you.Call Bellissima Dental Boutique at
(910) 778-1229 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit to be our guest. We’ll be in touch soon.