Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about gum disease:
What’s the best way to prevent gum disease?
The best way is to maintain healthy dental habits throughout your lifetime, including brushing and flossing, making healthy food and beverage choices, and seeing the dentist regularly. But don’t worry. Effective treatment exists for every stage of gum disease, too.
Will getting my teeth cleaned hurt?
Our goal is to make sure every patient is completely comfortable throughout their care. Dr. Brent and our hygienists have a very gentle touch, and they communicate with you and listen to you every step of the way as they remove plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and floss between your teeth.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
The American Dental Association has reported that nearly 80% of Americans have some form of periodontal (gum) disease; evaluation by dental professionals will help you find out if you’re one of them! Early gum disease may not be obvious to you, but common symptoms may include swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, or dark buildup between teeth.
How is gum disease treated?
Dr. Brent will evaluate your gum health and help choose the right treatment for you. Mild gum disease, known as gingivitis, can be treated and even reversed with regular routine cleanings. The longer you may have gone without addressing the condition, the harder we may have to work to treat it, but we have the techniques and expertise to do so and get you healthy again. More advanced periodontal disease may call for scaling and root planing with more regular maintenance visits. In some cases, a laser may be used or an antibiotic therapy called ARESTIN™, which eradicates the bacteria that cause gum disease. And it works painlessly!
When teeth are infected or extensively damaged, extraction is the necessary solution. We are able to perform most extractions in our office, so you won’t be inconvenienced by referral to another office. We can even offer bone grafting at the time of extraction to help preserve vital underlying bone. Dr. Brent’s years of experience allow her to perform this procedure with a gentle approach and minimal discomfort.
