Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic condition that’s today’s leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The progressive inflammation and infection that affect the gums, bone, and structures supporting your teeth develop quietly in the early stages, which is why many patients don’t realize their gums are inflamed until serious damage is already underway. Dr. Maria Wytko and her team at TKO Dentistry offer personalized periodontal care to keep your gums as healthy as possible and your teeth intact.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal or gum disease usually results from the buildup of plaque along your gumline. If this sticky layer of bacteria is not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can quickly harden into tartar, triggering inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue. The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and the good news is that it’s typically reversible when addressed early. But if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which can damage the tissues and bone supporting your teeth.
The following are some of the warning signs of periodontal disease:
Redness and Swelling: Healthy gums are typically firm and pale pink in color. One of the earliest signs of gum disease is redness or puffiness, especially around the edges where the teeth meet the tissue. Even if you have no discomfort, you should never ignore visible changes in your gum tissue.
Bleeding When Brushing or Flossing: Gum bleeding when you brush or floss is a classic early symptom of periodontal disease. While many people assume they are brushing too hard, the culprit is usually gum inflammation, so be sure to seek prompt care.
Persistent Bad Breath: When bacteria accumulate, they release toxins that produce unpleasant mouth odors. So if you experience bad breath that’s not related to odor-causing foods like onions, or if the unpleasant odor persists even with regular brushing and flossing, an underlying gum issue could be the cause.
Gum Sensitivity and Discomfort: Early gum disease is typically painless, which is why it often goes unnoticed. However, patients sometimes experience subtle sensitivity or tenderness when brushing, chewing, or even applying gentle pressure. Even if you experience minor discomfort that persists, we recommend that you have your gum health evaluated.
Gum Recession: As inflammation and infection progress, the gum tissue may recede or pull away from around your teeth, leaving your teeth looking longer. Gum recession can also expose more of your tooth root surfaces, leading to sensitivity to temperature changes and even touch.
Loose Teeth: In its advanced stages, periodontal disease can cause damage to the structures that support your teeth, leading to loose or shifting teeth. In the severe stages of gum disease, patients often experience changes in their bite, with some reporting that their teeth no longer fit together the way they did.
What Are the Impacts of Periodontal Disease on Your Health?
Periodontal disease does more than damage your smile. The chronic inflammation has been linked to several serious health concerns, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cognitive decline, and even pregnancy complications. Maintaining your gum health is key to protecting your oral health and safeguarding your entire body.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
If you have signs of periodontal disease, the following is a look at what you can expect:
- Scaling and Root Planing: The primary treatment for managing periodontal disease is typically a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing (SRP). Our doctor will gently and thoroughly remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below your gumline and smooth your tooth root surfaces. SRP eliminates harmful bacteria, reduces inflammation, and allows your gum tissue to heal and reattach securely to your teeth.
- Periodontal Maintenance: After your scaling and root planing treatment, we typically recommend periodontal maintenance appointments every 3-4 months. We will clean your teeth, evaluate your gum health, and intervene, if necessary, to address any emerging needs. Meticulous at-home oral hygiene practices are an important component of your periodontal maintenance plan.
- OralDNA Microbial Testing: This innovative diagnostic test identifies the specific strains of bacteria linked to gum disease, allowing for targeted, effective treatment.
- Antibiotic Treatment: Depending on your unique needs, we may recommend antibiotic treatment in severe cases. The goal is to address the infection at its source, helping promote healing.
- Ozone Therapy: Ozone therapy harnesses the natural antimicrobial properties of oxygen to eliminate bacteria in your periodontal pockets and calm gum inflammation, supporting healing and recovery. Ozone therapy is used as an adjunctive treatment in some cases.
Periodontal Care Near Me in North Scottsdale, AZ
If you experience any warning signs of gum disease, don’t wait. Contact TKO Dentistry for a prompt evaluation. Dr. Maria Wytko and her patient-centered team offer personalized periodontal care to maintain your long-term gum health and safeguard your general well-being.
We invite you to call us at (480) 896-7888 to schedule an appointment or follow this link to request one today! We look forward to caring for all your dental needs.
