If you have been told you have periodontal disease, you may feel worried about what this means for your well-being. The symptoms of this condition can be treated with routine deep cleanings and improved oral hygiene. Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, offers periodontal care and preventive appointments that help you reduce your worries and have a healthy smile.
Read more: Improve Your Gum HealthSigns That You May Have Gingivitis
Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, can be reversed if caught in time. If you have symptoms such as inflamed or swollen tissue, bleeding when you try to floss, or persistent bad breath, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. During your examination, your dentist will be able to take a closer look at your oral cavity and see if an infection is the cause of these problems, or if you have another condition.
The Progression Of This Infection
There are several stages of periodontitis. The first is gingivitis which is characterized by the symptoms mentioned above. If this is not found in time, the infection will continue to progress into mild periodontitis, then moderate, and finally severe. If you have severe periodontal disease, you may experience the symptoms previously mentioned as well as gum recession, pain when chewing, and tooth loss. To prevent these problems, necessary deep cleanings will need to be performed to manage these side effects.
One of the most concerning aspects of this disease is permanent tooth loss. If you have lost a tooth due to this gum infection, it will put you at risk of further bone loss and weakening of the jawbone. As a result, you may experience problems with chewing, speech, and more.
How A Deep Cleaning Can Help
Periodontal treatments are more in-depth than the ones included in your standard checkup. During a regular appointment, plaque will be removed from the surface of your teeth. For scaling and root planing, the dentist will use special tools to clean below the gum line and reattach the root of the tooth to the tissue line. This will help prevent gum recession and tooth loss. Depending on the severity of the infection, you may need to have several sessions throughout the year to maintain your condition. Treating gingivitis may take one to two cleanings, but more advanced forms may require four per year.
If you have experienced tooth loss due to this disease, replacement options may be available once the condition is under control. Your dentist may recommend a bridge or dentures to help you eat and speak with more ease.
Learn More About Deep Cleanings By Calling Your Dentist
To help manage your periodontal disease, you can schedule a scaling and root planing service with Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA. To schedule this appointment, call us at 515.965.0230.