Periodontal Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, also know as gum disease, is an infection of the gums, teeth and bone in your mouth. Periodontal disease will not go away, and if left untreated, can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. There are several stages and symptoms of periodontal gum disease.
The initial stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis develops when there is a build up of plaque and tartar along the gum line. Symptoms of gingivitis are red or dark gums, gums that easily bleed when you brush or floss, swollen gums, bad breath and/or a bad taste in your mouth. You may not know you have gingivitis because it is usually painless. Gingivitis is easily reversible, but if left untreated can lead to periodontitis.
There are 3 stages of periodontitis.
The first stage occurs when gingivitis progresses and plaque and tartar begin to develop under the gum line. Usually at the first stage of periodontitis, your gums will begin to pull away from your teeth, in addition to swollen, red and/or bleeding gums. The sulcus between your teeth and gums are 3-4 mm deep.
The second stage of periodontitis, your teeth begin to drift, in addition to swollen, red and/or bleeding gums. The sulcus between your teeth gums are now 4-6 mm deep and an abscess may form.
At the third stage of periodontitis, your teeth may start to become loose and bone loss may even be present. The sulcus between your teeth gums are now greater than 6 mm deep.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or would like to see if you have periodontal gum disease, please contact Dr. Dhayni, DDS to schedule an appointment at (586)-558-8200 or email us at info@warrendentistry.com. Our office is located at 30205 Schoenherr Rd, Suite E, Warren, Michigan 48088. Dr. Dhayni, of Warren Dentistry, provides general and cosmetic dental services in the Metro Detroit Michigan Area.
A periodontal probe reading greater than 3mm is a sign of periodontal disease. The depth of the pockets will help us determine how far periodontal disease has advanced in your teeth. In some cases, x-rays are needed. Once we determine your level of periodontal disease we will devise a treatment plan.
The first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, can usually be treated by faithfully brushing and flossing, along with getting professional cleanings done on a regular basis. If your gingivitis has turned into periodontitis, the first two stages can usually be treated with scaling and root planning along with faithfully brushing and flossing and getting professional cleanings done on a regular basis. If you have an abscess, it must be drained and sometimes an antibiotic is prescribed. At the last stage of periodontal gum disease, scaling and root planning may not be an option and your teeth may have to be extracted.
To prevent periodontal gum disease, good oral hygiene must be practiced on a regular basis. Brushing twice a day along with flossing and using mouth wash once a day is highly recommended. Also, eating a balanced diet and visiting your dentist for a check-up and cleanings regularly will help prevent periodontal disease.
The cost of treating periodontal gum disease varies depending on how far your periodontal gum disease has advanced. We have payment options and financing available for those who qualify. Please call Dr. Dhayni, DDS to schedule an appointment at (586)-558-8200.
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