Periodontal Therapy
Gate City, VA | Big Stone Gap, VA
Periodontal disease, also known as "gum disease," is an infection of the soft tissues and bone that support your teeth. Symptoms include bleeding, edema, gum recession, and poor breath.
Dr. Campbell will recommend scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) if you have active gum disease, eliminating calcified buildup just below the gumlines. The only way to know for sure if you have gum disease is to have a periodontal examination during your next appointment.
What is Gum Disease?
Plaque bacteria proliferate and cause infection in the pocket formed between your gums and teeth, triggering gum inflammation. If they are not removed, your gums will detach from your root surface and the bone beneath will dissolve. This results in a deeper pocket that is difficult to clean and contributes to tooth movement. Teeth may gradually get loose and fall out.
Surprisingly, this periodontal infection begins as gingivitis, which is reversible, but if left untreated for too long, it can cause lasting structural damage.
Risks of Gum Disease
Active mouth infections, such as periodontal disease, have been shown in studies to increase your risk of various health problems. This is due, in part, to the inflammatory response and high number of bacteria in your mouth, which spread into your bloodstream via the open infection. According to research, treating periodontal disease and reducing inflammatory strain on your body can have a good impact on the risk or recovery of illnesses such as:
- Pneumonia and lung illnesses
- Cardiovascular disease (high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack)
- Male and female infertility
- Sexual dysfunction
- Alzheimer's disease (AD)
- Diabetes
- Preeclampsia and early labor
Treatment for Gum Disease in Gate City and Big Stone Gap
Periodontal therapy is often called a "deep cleaning" or "scaling and root planing," as it involves cleaning the areas beneath the gumlines that brushing and flossing cannot reach. Some of these treatments are finished in a single session, while others are sectioned out over two visits. Our Gate City and Big Stone Gap dental office utilizes specific equipment designed to gently clean beneath the gums, but if the area is particularly sensitive, local anesthetics or other numbing medicines may be used.
After Periodontal Therapy
A periodontal maintenance routine is essential after gum disease treatment to prevent relapse. You may need to schedule a periodontal management session as frequently as every 3-4 months, depending on the severity of your condition.
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Campbell
If you suspect symptoms of gum disease or it’s time for your six-month cleaning, call our Gate City, VA and Big Stone Gap, VA dentist today!