Maintain a Healthy, Beautiful Smile with Gum Disease Treatment
Tender, bleeding, or receding gums aren’t something you should ignore. They are often a sign of gum disease, a severe oral issue that affects the gums and the surrounding structures. If you suspect gum disease in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, don’t wait until damage occurs. Reserve an appointment with Dentistry by Brian Weber for comprehensive periodontal care. Let’s help protect your smile at its foundation.
How does gum disease develop?
Periodontal disease affects millions of people and is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. This oral condition develops when plaque builds up in the mouth because of poor oral hygiene. Dental plaque is a sticky bacterial film. Plaque doesn’t just sit on your teeth. Over time, it multiplies and calcifies into tartar, which inflames your gums and causes early-stage gum disease (gingivitis).
Symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Gum redness
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Gums that easily bleed when flossing and brushing
- Sensitive teeth
- Bad breath
Untreated gingivitis progresses into periodontitis, which is more severe and destructive. The infection damages the periodontal ligaments at this stage, causing your gums to pull away (recede). Gum recession causes deep periodontal pockets that can’t be effectively cleaned with your toothbrush. These pockets invite more harmful bacteria, eventually damaging the underlying bone, causing tooth loss. Even worse, the infection can travel throughout your body and create an” inflammation overload,” which heightens the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other systemic illnesses.
How is gum disease treated?
Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene and standard cleanings. However, if the infection doesn’t respond to conservative treatment, Dr. Brian Weber, DDS, will recommend deep teeth cleaning as an effective treatment.
This non-surgical treatment involves:
- Scaling: We use special tools and skills to remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets in your mouth. Our tools are thorough enough to reach depths your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Root planing: Your dentist smooths the root surfaces of your teeth to help prevent future infections and support your gums in reattaching to the teeth. Deep cleanings may require multiple visits, depending on the severity of your gum disease. To ensure your comfort, we offer anesthetics and thorough aftercare for a smooth, supportive dental experience.
Scaling and root planing in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, works for many patients. However, you may need periodontal surgery in severe cases. Our team will guide you until you achieve optimal gum health.
How do I prevent gum disease?
Although periodontal disease is treatable, prevention is the most effective way to maintain a healthy smile. Here are the secrets to a gum disease-free smile.
- Good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily to prevent plaque buildup.
- Eat healthy: Consider whole grains, nuts, veggies, and other dental-friendly foods. Limit the intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages.
- Quit tobacco use: Smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco causes dry mouth and plaque buildup, which are predisposing factors for gum disease.
- Routine dental visits: See your St. Louis Park dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Gum disease treatment near me in St Louis Park, Minnesota
Your gums are the foundation of your smile. Don’t let periodontal disease ruin the smile you have worked so hard to protect. Suspect gum disease? Call (952) 925-3555 for effective periodontal care at Dentistry by Brian Weber.
