Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment
Today, nearly three out of four Americans suffer from some form of periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Unfortunately, many of those people don't even know that they have it.
While this common condition may not even cause symptoms at first, it can quickly become dangerous if left untreated for too long, leading to inflammation, jawbone deterioration, and even tooth loss. Studies have even shown that it may be connected to serious health problems like heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Here at Lakeland Family Dental, we’re dedicated to keeping our patients safe and healthy, which is why we make effectively treating periodontal disease at the earliest possible stages a priority.
With the help of regular check-ups and available therapy options, Dr. Eric Ruiz and Dr. Samantha Ruiz can ensure that you and your loved ones enjoy happy, healthy smiles for years to come.
How Do I Know if I Have Periodontal Disease?
Quite simply, in the early or moderate stages of periodontal disease, most patients don't have any symptoms they take notice of. In more a severe stage of the disease,
Common symptoms include:
- Red or tender gums
- Bleeding during brushing and flossing
- Loose (or mobile) teeth
- Changes in the way your teeth come together
- Bad breath that doesn't resolve with improved oral hygiene or the addition of mouthwash
- Teeth that appear longer than they used to (a sign of receding gums)
However, it’s important to remember that in many cases, easily noticeable symptoms may not show up until the disease has progressed. That’s why attending regular check-ups with Dr. Ruiz, Dr. Sam, and the rest of our team is so important. Check out the video below for a better visualization of what can happen with gum disease.
Personalized Treatment Options
Gum disease is a progressive condition, and we'll recommend the treatment option that is right for your level of disease. Just like many other health problems, gum disease is best treated and has the best prognosis if caught in the earliest stages!
While our team will try to prevent periodontal disease with the help of preventive therapies, we are prepared to provide non-surgical therapy if necessary. Our highly skilled hygienists are major team players and are meticulous and diligent when it comes to treating gum disease.
Regular use of anti-bacterial oral rinses can help preserve the revitalizing effects of these treatments.
Call to Schedule Your Next Cleaning
Cleanings are both prevention and treatment when it comes to gum disease! Our skilled hygienists will carefully remove plaque and tartar build-up to avoid the irritation that sets gum disease in motion and let you know if more assertive treatment is necessary.
Please contact Lakeland Family Dental today if you have any questions or you’d like to schedule an appointment for you or a loved one. Gum disease is the number one cause of lost teeth in American adults, and we want to help you keep your teeth for a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions
The short answer - yes! Modern scientific studies show that electric toothbrushes remove more plaque than manual brushes. These same studies show that electric toothbrushes are perfectly safe for your teeth and gums. You are actually less likely to cause gum recession or tooth damage with an electric toothbrush than you are with a manual brush!
Many electric toothbrushes come with a timer to ensure you are brushing for the full 2 minute recommendation. Electric toothbrushes can be particularly helpful for anyone who has lost or limited hand dexterity, whether due to natural aging or injury.
Adding an electric toothbrush into your oral hygiene routine can be an easy way to improve your oral health!
Meet Our Doctors:
Dr. Samantha Ruiz
Dr. Samantha Ruiz, also known as "Dr. Sam", knew she wanted to be a dentist from an early age.
She grew up in Kenosha and, after graduating high school, attended Marquette University for nearly a decade. ...
Dr. Eric Ruiz
Dr. Eric Ruiz ("Dr. Ruiz"), received his BA in molecular and cellular biology from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. He went on to obtain his DDS from the Marquette University School of Dentistry ...
Featured Blog Posts - Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment
Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Disease at Lakeland Family Dental
Did you know that nearly half of the adult population in the United States is affected by some form of periodontal disease? This range of conditions, from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe forms like periodontitis, can lead to significant damage to your gums, and bone structure, and even ...
The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease: How to Protect Your Health
At Lakeland Family Dental, we believe that your oral health plays a key role in your overall well-being. While many people understand the connection between oral hygiene and a healthy smile, fewer realize that gum disease can also affect your heart health. In this blog, we’ll ...
Exploring the Potential Link Between Gum Disease and Cancer: What You Need to Know | Dentist Near Me
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. The condition is caused by bacterial infection of ...
Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment Technology
Laser Bacterial Reduction with Biolase EpicX Laser
Our BIOLASE Epic X Diode Laser is the only laser FDA cleared for laser bacterial reduction (LBR). Laser light helps decontaminate gum tissues by decreasing the amount of harmful bacteria and removing diseased tissue. Most bacteria that cause gum disease are dark in color, and the laser is attracted to these specific bacteria instead of healthy bacteria. The laser also disinfects the root surface, which provides a more receptive surface for gum tissue reattachment and healing.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive, non-toxic alternative to pharmaceuticals that reduces inflammation, pain, pathogenic bacterial levels, and stimulates wound healing while leaving healthy tissue intact. The goal of laser therapy is to eliminate the bad bacteria that causes gum disease through its antibacterial properties, and to return the gum tissues to a state of health through its anti-inflammatory effects. That is why the laser is so effective in helping to treat gum disease and gum inflammation!