Periodontal Disease
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Westlake, OH
Maintaining healthy gums is just as vital as caring for your teeth. Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an inflammatory oral health condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. When left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Dental Care of Westlake specializes in identifying, treating, and managing gum disease for our Westlake, OH patients. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that targets the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. Gum disease often starts quietly but can cause significant oral health concerns when left untreated. It typically begins when bacteria in plaque build up along the gumline, causing the body’s immune system to react with inflammation.
Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease
In the early stage of periodontal disease called gingivitis, symptoms will be mild and may only occur during brushing or eating. Because gum disease is often painless in its early stages, it is important to recognize the warning signs. The most common signs and symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Gum recession (teeth appearing longer)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite structure
Stages of Periodontal Disease
There are three stages of periodontal disease. These include:
- Gingivitis – The earliest stage, gingivitis is characterized by inflammation and occasional bleeding. At this point, the damage is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.
- Periodontitis – If gingivitis is ignored, it progresses to periodontitis. Pocket that trap infection form when the gums begin to pull away from the teeth.
- Advanced Periodontitis – Advanced periodontitis occurs when the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed, often requiring surgery or tooth extraction.
Causes & Risk Factors
The common cause of periodontal disease is a poor oral hygiene regimen that can cause plaque to harden into tartar. Other factors can increase your risk, such as:
- Tobacco use and smoking
- Genetics and family history
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy or menopause)
- Certain medications that cause dry mouth
- Systemic diseases like diabetes
Why Treat Periodontal Disease?
Seeking gum disease treatment early is essential to prevent permanent bone loss and tooth extractions. Beyond oral health, treating a gum infection reduces the level of chronic inflammation in your body, supporting your overall cardiovascular and respiratory health.
If you have gingivitis, our team may recommend a special rinse or toothpaste to use after your regular brushing and flossing. We will also help you perfect your flossing technique to be sure that you are targeting the right areas in your cleaning routine. Other treatments to manage and reverse gum disease include:
- Scaling and Root Planing – A deep cleaning that removes tartar from below the gumline and smoothes the tooth roots to help gums reattach.
- Antibiotic Therapy – Localized or systemic medication to control bacterial growth.
- Periodontal Maintenance – Specialized cleanings performed every three to four months to prevent the recurrence of infection.
What to Expect During Your Visit
During your consultation, our team uses a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. We will also take digital X-rays to assess any bone loss. Based on these findings, we create a personalized treatment plan to restore your gum health.
Gum Disease Prevention Tips
Preventing periodontitis starts at home with proper gum care. We recommend the following to lower the risk of gum disease:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every single day to reach bacteria between teeth.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Schedule routine cleanings and exams at least twice a year.
Why Choose Dental Care of Westlake?
Dental Care of Westlake combines advanced dental technology with a gentle, patient-centered approach. Our goal is to provide a comfortable space where you get specialized dental care to help optimize your oral health. When you walk into our dental office, we treat you like family.
Contact Us for Periodontal Disease Treatment
Dental Care of Westlake provides complete dental solutions in the area. If you’re worried you may have gum disease, we’re here for you. Reach out to our team today to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
While lost gum tissue does not grow back naturally, we can stop the progression of gum recession through deep cleanings and, in some cases, refer you for grafting procedures if necessary.
We prioritize your comfort and can use local numbing agents or sedation options to ensure that deep cleaning procedures are virtually painless.
While bacteria that trigger the inflammatory response can be spread through saliva, your overall oral hygiene and immune response are the primary factors in developing the disease.