Gum disease is a severe oral health concern affecting millions of Americans. This bacterial infection affects the health and structure of the teeth, gums, and jaw. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss and increases the risk of developing a systemic illness. Rockville, MD, dentist Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh offers periodontal therapy to treat gum disease.
With over 23 years of clinical experience, Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh can spot the signs of gum disease in the earliest stages, allowing for conservative and efficient treatment. The sooner gum disease is caught, the easier it can be treated. As the infection spreads, it becomes much more challenging to treat.
The Stages of Gum Disease
We can treat and even reverse gum disease if caught early. Gum disease begins when harmful bacteria feed on sugars and starches left in the mouth.
Bacteria create a film on the teeth and gums called plaque. Over time, plaque hardens to form tartar. Tartar is more challenging to remove with brushing and flossing. Only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.
As gum disease progresses, the bacteria can cause complex oral health complications. There are two critical stages of gum disease; many patients do not realize they have gum disease until the later stages. This is why routine visits to our Rockville, MD, dentist’s office, where Dr. Sarkarzadeh will screen for signs of gum disease, are vital.
Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease is typically easy to treat. However, it may require additional at-home care to prevent it from returning. Patients with reoccurring gum problems may benefit from more frequent professional dental cleanings. At this stage, bacteria form deep pockets in the gums. Gum inflammation and bleeding gums are common.
Periodontitis: An advanced stage of gum disease, periodontitis can cause permanent damage to the gum tissue and weaken the teeth. This often requires intensive treatment to address damage and restore oral health. If gum disease is untreated, teeth may become loose or fall out, affecting your bite and jaw bone function.
Signs of Gum Disease
Most importantly, if you experience any of the following signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarkarzadeh:
- Gums that are red, swollen, or sore
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive gums
- Chronic gum pain
- Mouth sores
- Pus between the gums and teeth
- Bad breath
- Changes in the fit of dentures
Schedule a dental appointment when you notice a change in your teeth or gums. Prompt, professional dental treatment can reverse early symptoms of gum disease. Waiting to treat gum problems can lead to deep gum pockets and tooth loss.
Periodontal Therapy in Rockville, MD
Gum therapy is designed to remove disease-causing bacteria from the oral cavity. Once the teeth and gums are clean and free from harmful bacteria, additional cosmetic or restorative dental treatments may be required to repair the subsequent damage. Dr. Sarkarzadeh and Dr. Farzin offer full-service dental implant options for patients who have lost teeth due to gum disease.
Dental implants can naturally replace missing teeth and provide long-term stability and oral health. Dr. Farzin also offers bone and gum grafting for patients with advanced periodontal disease.
- Preventive Care: If caught early, your dentist can treat gum inflammation and bleeding with a thorough dental cleaning. Dr. Sarkarzadeh may also recommend an antibacterial mouthwash to help balance the bacteria in your mouth. At-home oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can help prevent gum inflammation from becoming gum disease. Flossing before brushing your teeth will reduce problems like bleeding gums.
- Scaling and Root Planing: These dental cleanings remove bacteria from the roots and gum pockets. Using special tools, our dentist will remove plaque and tartar. This deep cleaning method helps prevent the development of gum recession and tooth loss.
- Gum Surgery: Dr. Sarkarzadeh may recommend a local periodontist or oral surgeon for further advice on treating advanced gum disease. He will do everything he can to restore health and function to your teeth and gums. Sometimes, removing damaged tissue and adding healthy tissue will help renew healthy gums. Our dentist will evaluate your gums to see if surgery suits your needs.
Periodontal Therapy FAQs
Do you have further questions about gum disease? Continue reading to learn more and find answers to commonly asked questions in our office:
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes. Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in America. When your gums deteriorate, they stop being a foundation for your teeth. As the gums pull away from teeth, they create deep gum pockets. Teeth loosen over time and can fall out in advanced cases of gum disease.
You can prevent tooth loss from gum disease by visiting your dentist for regular checkups and dental cleanings. Brushing and flossing at home can also prevent possible tooth loss.
Why is gum therapy necessary?
In short, you can take steps at home to reduce your gum disease symptoms. Brushing and flossing twice daily can remove bacteria contributing to gum problems. However, you can not completely relieve gum issues as they develop without professional care. Gum therapy helps your dentist assess the issue and damage and find the root cause. We select gum treatments based on what your dentist finds out about your gum status.
My gum disease has progressed. What kind of treatment will help me?
You may be a good candidate for oral surgery with advanced gum disease. Oral surgery is best for patients with severe gum disease issues. Surgery can include gum grafting, which replaces dead gum tissue with healthy tissue from other areas of your mouth.
Improve Your Gum Health
Sometimes, brushing and flossing are not enough to keep your gums healthy. Call Congressional Dental Care in Rockville, MD, for periodontal therapy at (301) 276-4694. Feel free to schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Sarkarzadeh online. If you notice a change in your gum health, contact us immediately for care. We can help you restore the look and health of your gums.