At Nautical Dental, we understand the importance of maintaining oral health, which extends well beyond having a beautiful smile. We provide gum disease treatment in San Antonio, TX. Gum disease, medically referred to as periodontal disease, is a severe condition that can jeopardize not just your oral health but your overall well-being. It is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, but fortunately, it is largely preventable.
The disease progresses in two primary stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. We comprehensively diagnose, treat, and manage gum disease to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.
Understanding Gum Disease
Periodontitis, or gum disease, has become a severe health issue for adults. It is an infection of the gums caused by the bacteria found in plaque. Not only is it a leading cause of tooth loss, but it can also put you at higher risk for stroke, type 2 diabetes, pregnancy issues, and certain cancers.
This disease starts as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, the condition can progress, leading to a breakdown in the tissues and bones that support your teeth. This can result in receding gums and eventual tooth loss. The bacteria can also enter the bloodstream, elevating your risk for other health problems.
Gingivitis
The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis. During this stage, bacteria in plaque build-up on the teeth, causing the gums to become inflamed and bleed easily during brushing or flossing. Although the gums might be irritated, their teeth are firmly planted in their sockets. No irreversible bone or tissue damage has occurred at this stage.
Periodontitis
If untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. In this more severe stage, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. The immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads below the gum line. The toxins produced by the bacteria and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If untreated, this can lead to tooth loss.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of gum disease early can help progress in timely treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus between the teeth and gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled specialists at Nautical Dental as soon as possible for gum disease treatment in San Antonio, TX.
Risk Factors
Numerous factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy
- Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes
- Certain medications that reduce saliva flow
- Nutritional deficiencies
Understanding these risk factors can help prevent and manage gum disease.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The first step to stopping periodontitis is treating the gum infection. Deep cleanings of the teeth, gums, and roots can remove the bacteria and tartar that irritate and inflame the gums. We can use medications to combat the infection and allow the gums to heal. The level of periodontal therapy depends on the progression of the gum disease. Our dentist and hygienist will work with you to determine the extent of treatment you need, including possible scaling and root planing.
Early diagnosis and gum disease treatment in San Antonio, TX, are key to managing gum disease effectively. Don’t wait until it’s too late; let us help you preserve your beautiful smile. Contact us at Nautical Dental to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier mouth and a happier life.
Diagnosis at Nautical Dental
At Nautical Dental, our dental professionals use a combination of techniques to diagnose gum disease accurately:
- Medical History Review: Understanding your medical history can help us identify any conditions or behaviors (such as smoking) that could contribute to gum disease.
- Visual Examination: A thorough examination of your gums to check for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and recession.
- Probing: A periodontal probe measures the depth of the pockets around each tooth. Healthy gums typically have pocket depths of one to three millimeters. Pockets deeper than four millimeters may indicate gum disease.
- X-rays: Dental X-rays help us see if there is any bone loss in areas where deeper pockets are detected.
Options: Gum Disease Treatment in San Antonio, TX
The treatment for gum disease depends on the stage of the disease, the response to earlier treatments, and your overall health. At Nautical Dental, we offer a range of periodontal therapy options aimed at controlling the infection and halting the progression of the disease.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional cleanings can be essential even if you have managed your oral hygiene well at home. During a routine check-up, our dental hygienists will remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. A professional cleaning every six months can help maintain a healthy mouth and catch gum disease early.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling involves removing tartar and plaque from above and below the gum line. Most moderate to advanced forms of periodontitis require deep cleaning to begin healing the gums and remove bacteria contributing to the disease. This process involves removing calcium or tartar from the teeth, including below the gum line. Since this is a deeper cleaning, we use anesthesia to numb the gums during this treatment. Once we completely remove the tartar, we perform root planing to smooth out rough spots on the tooth root where germs gather for improved healing.
Surgical Treatments
Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)
For advanced cases of periodontitis, flap surgery may be necessary. During this procedure, we lift the gums back and remove the tartar. In some instances, we smooth irregular surfaces of the damaged bone to limit areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide. The gums are then placed so the tissue fits snugly around the tooth. Over time, this reduces the pocket size, making it easier to keep the area clean.
Maintenance and Aftercare
After successfully treating gum disease, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental check-ups are crucial. Our team will work with you to create a tailored maintenance plan, which may include:
- Regular Dental Visits: Professional dental cleanings and checkups in San Antonio every three to four months to prevent recurrence.
- Good Oral Hygiene Practices: Brushing twice daily, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Quitting smoking and managing underlying conditions like diabetes.
Why Choose Nautical Dental?
At Nautical Dental, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive and compassionate care. Here’s why you should consider us for your gum disease treatment in San Antonio, TX:
- Experienced Team: Our dental professionals have vast experience in treating all stages of gum disease.
- Advanced Technology: We utilize the latest dental technology and techniques for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We believe in educating our patients about their condition and involving them in the treatment planning process.
- Comfortable Environment: Our clinic offers a welcoming and relaxing environment tailored to make your visits as comfortable as possible.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or if it’s simply been a while since your last dental check-up, we encourage you to contact Nautical Dental today. Our team is ready to assist you in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health.
Gum Disease Treatment in San Antonio, TX
At Nautical Dental, we take our patient’s health seriously and offer periodontal therapy with general dentistry options in San Antonio, TX, to treat periodontitis effectively. We can effectively treat periodontitis to stop the progression of bone and tooth loss. We also offer everything from orthodontics to dental implants. Contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric Cornelius to learn more about treating gum disease.