Periodontal Disease Treatment in Richboro, PA
Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it often progresses silently until it reaches its later stages. At Addisville Dental in Richboro, PA , Dr. Harsimrat Kaur Sandhu, DDS diagnoses and treats gum disease at every stage to protect your teeth, your gums, and your overall health. Call (215) 485-5151 or book online to have your gums checked.
request an appointmentWhat Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly called gum disease, is an infection of the gum tissue and the structures that support your teeth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of American adults age 30 and older show signs of gum disease. It is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to other health concerns throughout the body.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease begins with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it hardens into tartar along and below the gumline. The bacteria in plaque and tartar release toxins that irritate the gums and trigger inflammation, which can gradually break down gum tissue and bone.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease, including:
- Inconsistent brushing and flossing
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Diabetes and certain other health conditions
- Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy
- Some medications that cause dry mouth
- Family history of gum disease
- Crooked or crowded teeth that are harder to clean
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Plaque has begun to irritate the gums, making them red, puffy, and swollen, and they may bleed when you brush or floss. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with improved at-home care and more frequent professional cleanings.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. At this stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating spaces called periodontal pockets. These pockets collect bacteria and debris, which causes further inflammation and deeper pockets. Over time, the bone and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place break down, leading to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Watch for these common warning signs:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
Because gum disease often develops without pain, many patients do not realize they have it. Dr. Sandhu is trained to detect periodontal disease in its early stages, which is why regular checkups and cleanings at Addisville Dental are so important.
How We Treat Periodontal Disease
Your treatment depends on the stage and severity of your gum disease. If you have gingivitis, Dr. Sandhu may recommend more frequent professional cleanings, improved brushing and flossing techniques, and an antibacterial mouth rinse or toothpaste.
For periodontitis, treatment may include:
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Dr. Sandhu then smooths the surfaces of your tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and helping your gums heal and reattach to your teeth.
Bone Grafting
If gum disease has caused bone loss in your jaw, Dr. Sandhu may perform a bone graft to rebuild lost bone tissue and strengthen the foundation that supports your teeth. Bone grafting can also help prepare the jaw for future dental implants.
Periodontal Maintenance
After active treatment, ongoing maintenance cleanings help keep gum disease under control and protect your results.
Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
Research has found links between periodontal disease and several systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Keeping your gums healthy is an important part of caring for your whole body. If gum disease has already caused tooth loss, our restorative options, including implants and dentures, can help restore your smile. Straightening crowded teeth with Invisalign can also make your teeth easier to keep clean.
Don’t wait for bleeding gums to become a bigger problem. Request an appointment or call (215) 485-5151 today.
Periodontal Disease in Richboro – FAQs
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the gums and tissues that support the teeth, caused by plaque buildup.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Common symptoms include red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth.
Can gum disease be cured?
Early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene. Advanced cases require specialized treatment and ongoing maintenance.
What treatments are available for periodontal disease?
Treatments may include deep cleaning with scaling and root planing, antibacterial rinses, bone grafting, and ongoing periodontal maintenance visits.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic, so most patients feel little discomfort. Mild tenderness afterward typically resolves within a few days.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Brush twice daily, floss regularly, avoid tobacco, and schedule professional cleanings every six months at Addisville Dental in Richboro.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes. Research shows links between periodontal disease and conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
