Periodontal Therapy – Loveland, OH
Protect Your Gums from Infection
Dr. Gerome and Dr. Patrice are extremely concerned about gum disease because it is the main cause of tooth loss among American adults and is an unfortunately common problem. Gum disease is also linked to heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. At every checkup, we’ll look for signs of gum infections and make recommendations for appropriate periodontal therapy in Loveland to prevent long-term damage to your gums and teeth.
Why Choose Gerome & Patrice Family Dentistry for Periodontal Therapy?
- Arestin Antibiotic Therapy Available for Faster Healing
- Soft Tissue Laser Ensures More Comfortable Treatment
- Friendly Team and Dentists Dedicated to Personalized Care
What is Gum Disease?
Almost half of adults thirty years and older have some form of gum disease, and the risk increases with age. This oral health problem starts as inflammation called gingivitis, and it can usually be reversed at this stage with improved oral hygiene. However, it will eventually progress to periodontitis if left untreated, which results in permanent damage that must be managed with regular professional dental treatments. Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection affecting the gums and bone structures supporting the teeth, and it is more common in men than women and those living below the federal poverty level. Other risk factors include smoking, certain genetic conditions, pregnancy, and health issues like diabetes.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, may show itself through symptoms like:
- Bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Dark or angry red gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing sessions.
- Tenderness
- Gum recession
Periodontitis typically involves symptoms like:
- Painful chewing
- Permanent teeth coming loose
- Dental sensitivity
- Altered bite alignment
- Dental restorations fitting differently
- Permanent tooth loss
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
The team at Gerome & Patrice Family Dentistry will thoroughly inspect your mouth to determine the severity of your infection and determine the best possible treatment. We may recommend one of the following treatments:
Scaling & Root Planing
Since routine oral care or professional cleanings will not be enough to treat an advanced gum infection, scaling and root planing is sometimes necessary. Scaling is the process with which we remove plaque from above and beneath the gum line, ensuring that the gums have a chance to heal. Root planing involves smoothing out the roots of teeth so the gums can more effectively reattach to them, reducing gum recession and sensitivity.
Arestin Antibiotic Therapy
After your initial periodontal therapy is complete, we’ll apply Arestin antibiotic therapy to the persistent pockets that have formed in between teeth as a result of your gum disease. This liquid-based antibiotic is designed to promote healing of your gum tissue in between your routine visits. Keep in mind that periodontal therapy requires regular retreatment every three to four months, which also gives us a chance to confirm that the antibiotic is working properly.