Gum disease can damage the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Without proper treatment, it can lead to severe complications, such as tooth loss, bone damage, and systemic health problems. You must be aware of the risk factors to prevent and treat gum disease effectively.
At Soulard Family Dentistry, we provide effective, pain-free gum disease treatments in St. Louis, MO, to help you prevent gum infections and their progression and protect your oral health. You should be vigilant about your oral hygiene routine to avoid gum disease.
Our dentist in St. Louis, Dr. Mandefro, is experienced in treating gum diseases and will ensure you receive top-quality and pain-free treatments. Your oral health is our priority, and our dental team is always ready to provide you with the best care.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a dental condition that occurs when bacteria in the mouth cause inflammation and infection in the gums. This leads to various symptoms, including redness, swelling, bleeding, and tenderness of the gums.
If left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis, causing irreversible damage to the gums, teeth, and bones that support them.
What Causes Gum Disease?
There are several causes of periodontal disease. These causes could include:
- Poor oral hygiene: When plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and gums, it can harden into tartar and lead to inflammation and infection of the gums.
- Tobacco use: Tobacco products can weaken the immune system and hinder the body’s ability to fight off infections, making individuals more susceptible to gum disease.
- Medications: Antihistamines and decongestants can cause dry mouth and reduce saliva production, increasing the likelihood of gum disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Several symptoms can indicate the presence of gum disease. They include:
- Red and swollen gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm, so any changes in color or texture could indicate a problem.
- Bleeding gums: Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing may also indicate gum disease.
- Halitosis: The bacteria that cause gum disease can produce foul-smelling compounds that result in chronic bad breath.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms and have tried searching Google for, “which dentist near me in St. Louis provides gum disease treatments?” Visit Soulard Family Dentistry, and let our dentist handle your dental condition and provide you with answers.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health complications if left untreated. The good news is that with proper treatment, gum disease can be effectively managed and even reversed. Let’s discuss the different treatment options available for periodontal disease.
Osseous surgery
Osseous surgery helps remove bacteria and smooth out damaged bone around the teeth. When plaque and tartar build-up under the gums, they create deep pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to bone loss. During osseous surgery, a dentist cleans these pockets, reshapes the affected bone, and sutures the gums back into place.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure to treat gum disease in its early to moderate stages. Unlike a regular dental cleaning, this process goes below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup. After scaling the teeth, the roots are smoothed to help gums reattach and prevent bacteria from returning.
Laser Gum Surgery
Laser gum surgery is an invasive treatment of gum disease. Instead of traditional cutting and suturing, this technique uses a laser to remove infected tissue and kill bacteria while preserving healthy gum structure. Curious about the benefits? Less pain, faster healing, and minimal bleeding compared to traditional surgical methods.
Gum Treatment in St. Louis, MO
Periodontal disease is a common and preventable condition that can have severe consequences if left unattended. By recognizing the symptoms of gum disease, you can seek timely gum disease treatment in St. Louis from our dentist.
Our dentist is dedicated to providing the highest quality care and will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan addressing your dental needs and concerns. We are committed to helping you achieve healthy gums and a beautiful smile you can be proud of. Contact us to schedule an appointment.