Periodontal Care for All Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to significant discomfort, bleeding, and tooth loss. Left untreated, it can also increase your risk of heart disease and other conditions. Dr. Jeffery A. Hennigan offers a range of periodontal treatments to restore and maintain the health of your gums. Prevention is his primary focus, but they can treat gum disease in any stage. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, you should seek prompt periodontal care. Contact our Lake Charles, LA, practice to schedule an appointment.
Through our routine treatment, we can help you prevent gum disease from ever developing.
The Stages of Periodontal Disease
In the early stages of gum disease, microbes gather along your gum line, causing mild inflammation. This phase of gum disease is known as gingivitis, and it is reversible. If you do not seek treatment, however, the bacteria will spread farther into your gums. This can create pockets that eventually cause the gums to pull away from your jawbone and tooth roots. This stage is known as periodontitis, and although it cannot be cured, it can be controlled with proper care.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
If you notice gum irritation, redness, or increased dental sensitivity, you should schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. Other symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Significant discomfort
- Inflamed gums
- Moderate to severe bleeding
- Loose teeth
- Gum recession
- Bad breath
Oftentimes, patients do not experience any symptoms. For this reason, it is important that they see their dentist for regular dental exams.
Our Periodontal Treatments
Through our routine treatment, we can help you prevent gum disease from ever developing. You should schedule an appointment every six months. During these appointments, our hygienist will remove the bacteria that cause periodontitis. Your dentist will also check for the initial signs of gum disease. If your dentist diagnoses gingivitis, it can usually be treated with a thorough cleaning and proper at-home care.
Some cases require scaling and root planing. Your dentist or hygienist will eliminate the bacterial pockets from your gums using gentle, precise techniques to minimize discomfort. He or she will also smooth the rough patches from your tooth roots, making it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate.
In the most advanced stages of gum disease, your dentist may recommend surgery. Your dentist will remove the damaged tissue, along with the bacteria. In some cases, your dentist may graft donor tissue to these areas. If you have lost teeth due to gum disease, we can replace them with restorative solutions like bridges, dentures, and dental implants.
The Importance of Periodontal Care
Periodontal care is important for your oral and overall physical health. Without treatment, you could suffer significant tooth loss and gum recession. In rare cases, you could even develop a life-threatening bone infection. It is especially important that expectant mothers seek periodontal care to avoid preterm delivery and low birth weight. With our comprehensive care, we can protect your gums, smile, and systemic wellbeing.
They provide a "no pain' and 'no anxiety' atmosphere, with the kindest staff in the area. dr.bray gave me a smile I could be proud of!
April 22, 2015 - Sarahj, Lake Charles Amelia Q.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, or if you need to establish a schedule of routine cleanings with an excellent dental practice, contact us today. We can perform a thorough analysis of your oral health and help you establish a new chapter of oral health in your life at any of our Lake Charles area offices.
