GUM DISEASE - CHARLOTTE, NC

Don’t Let Gum Disease Damage Your Smile

Why Treat Gum Disease?

Gum disease may start quietly. At first, you may notice your gums feel tender or bleed when you brush and floss. Then, your gums become inflamed and start to pull away from your teeth. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because initial symptoms are virtually painless, many patients do not know they have this condition until it has significantly progressed! Our skilled, caring dental team at Charlotte Dental Arts offers the highly effective, minimally invasive treatments you need to keep gum disease in Charlotte, NC under control and maintain proper oral health for years to come. Contact us at the first appearance of symptoms!

Common Signs of Gum Disease

Gums that bleed easily
Red, swollen, tender gums
Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
Persistent bad breath or bad taste
Pus between your teeth and gums
Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
Any change in the fit of partial dentures

The Cause of Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth). If the plaque is not removed by flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups, it will continue to build up and create toxins that can damage the gums. Periodontal disease forms just below the gum line and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. Early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) are characterized by red and swollen gums that bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, and the gums and bone that support the teeth will become seriously and irreversibly damaged. Gums infected with periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or be removed by a dentist.

Certain factors can increase a patient’s risk of developing periodontal disease, including:

Smoking or using chewing tobacco
Diabetes
Certain types of medication
Bridges that no longer fit properly
Crooked teeth
Old fillings
Pregnancy

Key Gum Disease Treatments

Scaling and Root Planing

A non-surgical treatment, scaling and root planing is often the first procedure in the fight against gum disease. Scaling removes the bacterial plaque from above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth surfaces to encourage healthy tissue reattachment and protection against future infection.

Osseous Surgery

Osseous surgery is the most aggressive treatment for advanced gum disease, often requiring the expertise of a periodontist. It involves removing the diseased gum tissue and repairing the damaged bone to restore support to the teeth. This surgery also removes the bacteria and calculus trapped in the deep pockets between the teeth.

Periodontal Maintenance

Once gum disease has been comprehensively treated, periodontal maintenance is recommended to ensure it does not return. This procedure is completed every 3-4 months and involves a deep cleaning of the teeth at and below the gum line to remove bacteria and plaque accumulation. These deep cleanings will replace your regularly scheduled hygiene appointments.

Targeted Treatment for Gum Disease

Our experienced dentist, Dr. Edwin Porter, provides multiple treatments for gum disease in Charlotte, NC, depending on the severity of your case and the stage of gum disease you’re in. We’ll begin with a consultation that includes an oral examination. Our dentist will assess your current oral health and provide you with a customized treatment plan that reflects your unique needs. Depending on your treatment and your anxiety level we may offer calming sedation dentistry to guarantee you’re comfortable throughout your visit. With proper treatment, maintenance, and good oral health habits, gum disease doesn’t have to damage your smile again. Most importantly, a smile free from bacteria and infection helps you live an overall healthy lifestyle!

How You Can Prevent Gum Disease

Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important for maintaining your health and the health of your smile. During each regular checkup, our dentist will check for signs of periodontal disease by measuring the space between your teeth and gums. Any sign of re-infection will be treated promptly! You don’t have to lose teeth to gum disease in Charlotte, NC, and by practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of ever getting this disease in the first place! Remember to brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits to help keep your smile healthy.

Stop gum disease before it’s too late!

Schedule your gum disease consultation in Charlotte, NC to get started.

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