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Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection that targets the soft tissue and the jawbone. If left untreated, gum disease can cause discomfort, bad breath, and at its worst, tooth loss. Here’s what you need to know about periodontal disease and signs to watch out for!
Common Signs of Periodontal Disease
While gum disease cannot be diagnosed without a formal, in-person exam, there are some common signs you can look for. If you’re currently experiencing any of the symptoms below, please schedule a dental appointment right away.
- Abscess on gums
- Bad taste in mouth
- Bleeding gums when brushing
- Gum recession
- Halitosis
- Loosening teeth
- Pain when eating & biting down
- Swelling gums
- Tooth sensitivity
Periodontal Disease Treatments
If you have periodontal disease, don’t fret! There are treatments available that can help reverse the effects of gum disease as long as it has not progressed too far along. For patients with mild gum disease, known as gingivitis, dentists often perform a scaling and root planing treatment. This is essentially a deep cleaning with gum recontouring to encourage the gums to reattach to the top of the teeth. For more serious forms of gum disease, known as periodontitis, laser gum therapy is often the course of action. Laser gum therapy removes the diseased soft tissue and encourages tissue regeneration and growth.
Gum Disease Treatment in Jonesboro, AR
The sooner you seek treatment, the better the results. When gum disease is caught early on, patients will increase their chances of having little to no lasting damage to their smile. Whether you’re experiencing signs of gum disease or you’ve been putting off your next dental checkup, don’t wait any longer. Regular dental visits can help catch any issues while they’re still small and treat dental problems before they worsen. If you think you may be suffering from gum disease, please contact Troy Bartels, DDS to schedule an oral health exam and consultation!
