Periodontal Care Specialist

What is periodontal disease?

Also known as periodontitis or gum disease, periodontal disease is a common condition that causes inflammation of the soft tissues that surround your tooth. Without timely treatment, periodontal disease becomes progressively worse and may lead to tooth loss.

Most of the time, the gum disease gingivitis leads to periodontal disease. Gingivitis is a bacterial infection that occurs when toxins from plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissue. Once bacteria colonizes in the pockets between your gums and teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat.

Deepening pockets between your gums and teeth often indicate that soft tissue and bone are being destroyed. Dr. Jenkins and her expert team offer thorough periodontal screenings during your routine dental exam to catch this disease before it causes major damage.

How do I know if I have periodontal disease?

Since it’s usually painless, you may have early stages of periodontal disease without even knowing it. Warning signs that indicate you may have periodontal disease include:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose permanent teeth
• Gums separating from teeth

Periodontal disease is the primary cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world, but early diagnosis and treatment at A Woman’s Touch Dentistry can help.

How do you treat periodontal disease?

First, Dr. Jenkins or a member of her team perform a comprehensive periodontal exam. Then, they recommend the best treatment for your particular condition.

Depending on the type and severity of your periodontal disease, treatment may include:

Scaling and root planing

Dr. Jenkins or a member of her team clean bacteria and tartar from your teeth and disinfect the surrounding tissue. They may also prescribe antibiotics or a medicated mouthwash to treat the infection.

Tissue regeneration

In cases of bone and tissue loss, they actively encourage regrowth with grafting procedures. They may insert a membrane into the affected areas to assist in this process.

Pocket elimination surgery

Also known as flap surgery, this procedure reduces the pocket size between the gums and teeth. Indentations in the jaw bone may also require jaw bone surgery.

If periodontal disease has caused you to lose one or more teeth, Dr. Jenkins may recommend dental implants to replace them.

Periodontal disease is much easier to treat in its early stages. Don’t hesitate to call A Woman’s Touch Dentistry or book an appointment online today.