Gum Disease Treatment in Charleston, SC

Periodontal TherapyAn Overview

Treating gum disease promptly and effectively is important. Leaving gum disease untreated often leads to additional complex dental concerns, including tooth loss.

Drs. James Dickert and Agatha Lynn provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for all stages of gum disease. Their periodontal therapy can help you restore your oral health.

At West Ashley Family Dentistry, we include a gum health check in every routine visit. This early screening helps us spot problems sooner for simpler treatment. We also identify your personal risk factors and give you tips to keep your gums healthy at home.

Periodontal therapy focuses on removing harmful bacteria from the gums, often in the form of plaque and tartar. Gum disease treatment also addresses any damage that may have occurred due to advanced gum disease.

We tailor treatment to your needs to restore health and function and prevent future infections. We start by evaluating your gums to understand your needs. Then, Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn will provide a treatment plan made for your smile.

The Importance of Gum Health

Healthy gums do more than make your smile look good. They protect your teeth and your overall health by keeping bacteria from entering your bloodstream. This helps lower your risk for conditions like heart disease.

Some medical conditions can affect your gum health. We will work with you to manage symptoms and prevent gum disease from progressing. Keeping your gums healthy will also improve your ability to manage your condition. We provide personal, one-on-one care to help you enjoy the benefits of a healthy smile, including strong gums

Periodontal Therapy What to Expect

treatment for gum disease in Charleston South Carolina

Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn will first assess the stage and severity of your gum disease. Then, they’ll recommend the right treatment for you. There are two distinct stages of gum disease:

Gingivitis: Early gum disease that is typically characterized by red, swollen, or irritated gums that may bleed when brushing. We can usually treat gingivitis conservatively with success to avoid further infection and damage.
Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease can have complex symptoms, including receding gums and loose teeth. Depending on your needs, we may recommend a specialist visit to a local periodontist for the best care.

An at-home antibacterial rinse can treat and manage gingivitis. For gingivitis and early periodontitis, we may recommend scaling and root planing, an intense cleaning procedure.

This non-surgical procedure removes plaque and tartar from your gums and tooth roots. Along with a prescribed rinse at home, it can effectively reverse early gum disease and restore your oral health.

Periodontal Therapy FAQs

Is periodontitis contagious?

The bacteria that cause gum disease can spread through saliva. If your gums are already vulnerable or unhealthy, you have a higher risk of infection. However, if they have strong gums, it’s unlikely to spread.

Is gum disease reversible?

Yes, if it’s gingivitis. Once gum disease processes past this first stage, you can no longer reverse it. A deep cleaning can manage gingivitis by removing the harmful bacteria that cause inflammation.

Do I need gum surgery for bleeding gums?

No. Most patients do not need gum surgery to reverse the symptoms of gum disease. Gum surgery is for patients with advanced gum disease, receding gums, tissue damage, or severe infections.

How often should I visit the dentist for gum disease treatment?

We personalize your treatment schedule. We will base the frequency of your visits on your specific risk factors. Expect to visit your dentist many times a year if you have advanced periodontitis.

If you have mild symptoms of gingivitis, two or three visits may suffice. Gum disease is a serious problem that can cause pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. Regular visits to the dentist are essential for catching gum disease early and preventing further damage.

What are the risks associated with periodontal therapy?

While gum disease treatments can be effective in restoring oral health, they can also come with certain risks. These risks may include pain, further infection, bleeding, and even tooth loss. It is important for patients to understand the potential risks associated with periodontal therapy before undergoing the procedure. However, the risks and complications are not common.

Are there any home remedies for gum disease?

Yes, you can take steps to prevent the development of gum disease at home. If your gums bleed when you brush but don’t hurt, try rinsing with warm salt water to help reduce bacteria. Use this daily until your gums stop bleeding. There are no home remedies for advanced gum disease.

Gum Disease Charleston SC

Periodontal TherapyAn Overview

The Importance of Gum Health

Periodontal Therapy What to Expect

Periodontal Therapy FAQs

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