Periodontal Treatment
in Austin & Round Rock, TX
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth caused by plaque and bacteria buildup. Over time, it can damage gum tissue and the bone that holds teeth in place. Without proper care, it may lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are essential for managing and preventing this condition. If your gums need some extra TLC, our team at High Point Dentistry would be glad to assist, whether you’re in the early stages of gingivitis or advanced stages of periodontitis. Contact our office today to learn more and schedule!
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What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
- Red, swollen, or tender gums: Inflammation is often one of the first noticeable signs.
- Bleeding gums: Gums may bleed easily during brushing, flossing, or eating.
- Persistent bad breath: Ongoing halitosis caused by bacteria buildup below the gumline.
- Gum recession: Gums begin to pull away from the teeth, making them appear longer.
- Loose teeth or bite changes: As the disease progresses, teeth may shift or feel unstable due to bone loss.
What are the stages of gum disease?
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage, marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. At this stage, no permanent damage has occurred and it is typically reversible with professional care and improved oral hygiene.
- Early Periodontitis: Infection begins to spread below the gumline, causing the formation of pockets and mild bone loss around the teeth.
- Moderate Periodontitis: Deeper pockets develop, with increased bone loss and more noticeable gum recession.
- Advanced Periodontitis: Significant damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, which may result in loose teeth or tooth loss if untreated.
How is gum disease treated?
Gingivitis is often reversed with a thorough professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Patients are also guided on improving their daily oral hygiene routine, including proper brushing, flossing, and sometimes antimicrobial rinses.
For periodontal disease, treatment is more involved and focuses on managing the infection and preventing further progression. A common approach is scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes bacteria and hardened deposits from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to encourage healing. Patients with periodontal disease typically require ongoing periodontal maintenance visits every few months to monitor gum health, as it cannot currently be cured, but it can be effectively managed.
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