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Gum Disease Treatment In San Antonio TX
At Advanced Periodontics & Dental Implants, Dr. Houssam Alghadban and his team offer a wide range of gum disease treatment services to help their patients from throughout greater San Antonio to maintain healthy gum tissue and teeth. Dr. Al is a highly skilled periodontist who is dedicated to providing his patients with the best possible care.
Overview of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and bones that support the teeth. Nearly half of adults 30 years old and older in the United States have some level of gum disease. It is caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth that forms a sticky film called plaque. If the plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease can range from mild to severe, and if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. Some common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums/ gum infection
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Gum recession
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Changes in bite or tooth alignment
Three Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis – This is the earliest and most common stage of gum disease. It is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums caused by plaque buildup. Gingivitis is typically reversible with good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly and receiving professional dental cleanings.
Periodontitis – If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This stage is characterized by damage to the bone and fibers that support the teeth. Periodontitis can cause pockets to form between the teeth and gums, which can become infected and lead to further damage. Treatment for periodontitis typically involves scaling and root planing, antibiotics, laser therapy, and other methods to remove bacteria and promote healing.
Advanced periodontitis – This is the most severe stage of gum disease, and it can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. Advanced periodontitis is characterized by deep pockets between the teeth and gums, receding gums, loose teeth, and changes in bite or tooth alignment. Treatment for advanced periodontitis may involve more extensive procedures such as periodontal surgery to repair the damage to the gums and bone.
Periodontal Treatment
At Advanced Periodontics & Dental Implants, we offer a variety of gum disease treatments to help our patients maintain healthy gums and teeth. Our treatments include:
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a periodontal treatment, also known as a deep cleaning, that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. It smooths out rough spots on the tooth roots to help prevent bacteria from accumulating. This treatment is usually the first step in treating gum disease, and it can be effective in reversing the early stages of the disease.
Antibiotics
In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the bacterial infection that causes gum disease. Antibiotics can be taken orally or applied topically to the gums, and they can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a minimally invasive gum disease treatment that uses a special laser to remove bacteria and diseased tissue from the gums. This treatment is often used in conjunction with scaling and root planing to help promote healing and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Periodontal Surgery
In more advanced cases of gum disease, periodontal surgery may be necessary to remove diseased tissue and restore the gums to a healthy state. Dr. Alghadban and his team are skilled in a variety of periodontal surgical techniques, including gum grafts, bone grafts, and pocket reduction surgery.
Preventing Gum Disease
Our periodontist and team at Advanced Periodontics & Dental Implants believe that prevention is the key to maintaining healthy gums and teeth. We encourage our patients to practice good oral hygiene at home by brushing and flossing regularly and scheduling regular dental cleanings and checkups. Our patients get personalized advice on diet, lifestyle, and other factors that can affect the health of your gums, gumline, and teeth.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Alghadban
If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease or are concerned about the health of your gums, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alghadban for the best treatment plan for you. Our experienced board certified periodontist and his team can help determine the best course of treatment options to help you achieve healthy gums and teeth. With our advanced periodontal treatment services and personalized care, we can help you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile.
Frequently asked questions
Is gum disease preventable?
Yes, gum disease is preventable with good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and scheduling regular dental cleanings and checkups.
Does gum disease only affect the gums?
No, gum disease can also affect the bone that supports the teeth, which can lead to tooth loss and other health problems if left untreated.
Is gum disease contagious?
Gum disease is not contagious, but the bacteria that cause it can be spread through saliva, which can increase your risk of developing the condition.
How long does gum disease treatment take?
The length of gum disease treatment will depend on the severity of your condition and the treatment that is recommended. In general, treatment can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
Gum disease treatment can be uncomfortable, but it is generally not painful. Your periodontist will take steps to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible during the treatment process.
How can I maintain healthy gums after gum disease treatment?
To maintain healthy gums after gum disease treatment, it is important to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and scheduling regular dental cleanings and checkups. Your periodontist may also provide personalized recommendations for diet, lifestyle, and other factors that can affect the health of your gums and teeth.
