At Holmes Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Fort Wayne, IN, Dr. Ryan Holmes and our team understand that healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Gum disease affects nearly half of American adults and is the leading cause of tooth loss. However, with early detection and proper treatment, we can help manage this condition and restore your oral health.
Dr. Holmes provides comprehensive periodontal care using modern techniques to effectively treat gum disease at any stage.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It’s typically caused by poor oral hygiene that allows plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. As the disease progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. The bacterial toxins and your body’s response to the infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It’s an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. At this stage, no irreversible bone or tissue damage has occurred, and the condition is completely reversible.
The symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Tender gums
- Slight receding of the gumline
If caught early, gingivitis can be reversed with professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene. Without treatment, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis is left untreated, causing irreversible damage to the supporting structures of your teeth. The inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets that collect debris and become infected.
Symptoms of periodontitis include all symptoms of gingivitis, plus:
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums that pull away from your teeth (receding gums)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Painful chewing
- New spaces developing between your teeth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
At this stage, professional treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and potential tooth loss.
Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease
At Holmes Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Holmes offers several effective treatments for periodontal disease. Your treatment plan will depend on the stage and severity of your condition.
Professional Dental Cleaning
For patients with gingivitis, a professional dental cleaning may be all that’s needed to reverse the condition. During this procedure, our dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, helping to eliminate the source of the infection.
Scaling and Root Planing
For more advanced cases, Dr. Holmes may recommend scaling and root planing, a deep-cleaning, non-surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia. This treatment involves:
- Scaling: Removing tartar and bacteria from your tooth surfaces and beneath your gums
- Root Planing: Smoothing the root surfaces to discourage further buildup of tartar and bacteria, and to help your gums reattach to your teeth
Most patients experience little discomfort during this procedure and notice significant improvement in gum health afterward.
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, Dr. Holmes may prescribe antibiotics to help control bacterial infection. These may be in the form of antibiotic mouth rinses, oral antibiotics, or antibiotic gels placed directly in the periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing.
Periodontal Maintenance
After treatment for periodontal disease, regular maintenance visits are essential to prevent the condition from returning or worsening. These maintenance appointments typically include:
- Professional cleaning above and below the gumline
- Evaluation of your oral hygiene practices
- Assessment of your gum health
- Identification of areas requiring additional attention
Dr. Holmes will recommend the appropriate frequency for your maintenance visits based on your individual needs.
Advanced Treatments
For severe cases of periodontitis, Dr. Holmes may refer you to a periodontist (gum specialist) for more advanced treatments, including flap surgery to reduce periodontal pockets, bone and tissue grafts to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue, or guided tissue regeneration to stimulate bone and gum growth.
Periodontal Therapy FAQs
Is periodontal disease common?
Yes, nearly half of Americans over age 30 have some form of periodontal disease. The risk increases with age, with over 70% of adults 65 and older affected.
Can periodontal disease be cured?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene. Advanced periodontal disease cannot be completely cured, but it can be successfully managed with proper treatment and maintenance.
Is periodontal disease painful?
Early stages may be painless, which is why regular dental check-ups are important. Advanced stages can cause discomfort, pain when chewing, and sensitivity.
Can periodontal disease affect my overall health?
Yes, research has shown links between periodontal disease and several systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and certain pregnancy complications.
How can I prevent periodontal disease?
- Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to clean between teeth
- Visit Dr. Holmes regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings
- Avoid tobacco use
- Maintain a healthy diet
Will my insurance cover periodontal treatment?
Most dental insurance plans provide some coverage for periodontal treatments. Our office staff will work with you to maximize your benefits and discuss payment options for any out-of-pocket expenses.
Request Your Appointment
Don’t wait until gum disease causes irreversible damage to your smile. If you’re noticing signs of periodontal disease or it’s time for your regular check-up, contact Holmes Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today. Call us at 260-530-5489 or fill out our convenient online form to request an appointment. Our friendly staff will contact you promptly to confirm your visit.
At Holmes Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile for life. Dr. Ryan Holmes and our team provide compassionate, comprehensive periodontal care in a comfortable environment.