If your oral hygiene is neglected, a buildup of sticky plaque and bacteria can rapidly develop along the gum line. When plaque hardens and turns to tartar, it can only be removed by a dental professional. This accumulation of bacteria can result in the development and progression of gum disease, a common oral condition that is related to eventual tooth loss. The condition impacts not only your gums but also your teeth and jaw bone.
When bacteria stays on your teeth for an extended period of time, it creates inflammation and causes your gums to pull away from your teeth. As a result, teeth and gums become weaker, making them more prone to additional oral health problems. Early diagnosis is essential for preventing gum disease from worsening over time. If you think you might have gum disease, make an appointment with our dental office in New York, NY. Our dentists will evaluate your gums and recommend treatment or cleaning recommendations that are suitable for you.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs in three stages and becomes more severe as the disease advances.
- Gingivitis – This is the first stage of the condition and is classified by swollen gums that bleed when brushing or flossing. If the disease is caught in this first stage and treated, patients can avoid the next stage where the condition becomes incurable.
- Periodontitis – Once the disease has progressed to this step, you may experience gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and more gum swelling.
- Advanced Periodontitis – The final stage is characterized by jaw bone deterioration and tooth loss. Without treatment, the disease can continue to spread and affect other areas of your mouth and body.
Scaling & Root Planing Treatment
Scaling and root planing is a treatment used to treat gum disease and prevent the condition from worsening. The procedure is basically a deep cleaning for the teeth that allows our team to not only clean the tooth surface but clean below the gumline as well. Special attention is given to the area between the teeth and the gums using tiny dental tools. While scaling the teeth, these dental instruments eliminate plaque and tartar below the gum line where gums are beginning to detach from the tooth.
Root planing is a procedure that involves the same process being performed to the tooth root, smoothing the surface of the root and eliminating bacteria from the area. As a result, your gums reattach with the roots of your teeth and your dental health is able to improve.
Working Together to Maintain Oral Health
Our practice offers comprehensive care not only to treat gum disease on site but also to educate and prepare you to manage the condition at home. Dedicated to creating better, healthier smiles, we strive to change the way patients think about dental care. We will do whatever it takes to ensure you receive the care you deserve. In managing your disease, we are not just your dental experts, but also your partners in achieving the common goal of providing you with a beautiful, healthy smile. Please call our office to schedule an appointment and recieve treatment or recommendations for managing your gum disease.
