Gum Disease Treatment Mesa Gilbert AZ

Proper brushing and flossing, along with routine dental cleanings and periodontal maintenance, are usually sufficient to keep gum disease at bay. Even those who are meticulous about their oral hygiene may experience some of the symptoms of gum disease, however. The good news is that gum disease is very treatable. At Snow Family Dentistry, we help patients identify and treat gum disease. We encourage a proactive approach, addressing the problem at the first sign of trouble and helping our patients to avoid some of the more extreme symptoms.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is usually caused by poor dental hygiene, which allows plaque to build up just above and below the gum line. Plaque attracts colonies of bacteria, which irritate the gums and lead to inflammation. In response, the body begins to destroy the underlying gum and bone tissue as a natural defense against inflammation.

In extreme cases, the deterioration of soft tissue can cause the teeth to loosen, to shift, or even to fall out.

When to Seek Treatment for Gum Disease (Periodontal)

At Snow Family Dentistry, we carefully examine all of our patients for any indications of gum disease (periodontal disease). One of the best things you can do to avoid diseases of the gums is to be consistent in your cleanings.

Additionally, we encourage our patients to be attentive to the symptoms of gum disease. If you exhibit any of these symptoms, that means you are likely due for an appointment. Common symptoms of gum disease include:

• Gums that have become swollen or puffy
• Gums that are tender to the touch
• Dark red or purple discoloration of the gums
• Bad breath
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Teeth that have loosened or shifted position

Treatment for Gum Disease

The first step toward treating gum disease is to fully assess the scope of the problem. Dr. Snow will perform a physical examination of the teeth and gums, potentially using probes to measure the depth of the grooves between the teeth and gums. Additionally, we may use our wellness scanning technology to take some pictures of your mouth, allowing us to ensure the right treatment.

If the gum disease is not too advanced, treatment is possible without the need for surgery. Through scaling, Dr. Snow can remove excess plaque from the teeth and eliminate bacterial buildup along the gums. Additionally, antibiotics may also be recommended to eliminate harmful bacteria from the mouth.

For more advanced cases, dental surgery may be required to replace lost bone density, gum tissue, or teeth.