Periodontal Care

Periodontal disease affects the tissues that support your teeth. This condition is the result of inflammation and infections affecting the gums and the bone that surrounds and supports the teeth. The first signs of periodontal disease are swollen and red gums or gums that bleed easily when you brush and floss. 

What Is Periodontal Disease? 

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the tissues and bones that support your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to the loosening and eventual loss of teeth. However, periodontal therapy can halt the progression of gum disease and prevent tooth loss. 

Gum disease is primarily caused by a buildup of plaque on tooth surfaces due to poor oral hygiene. When food particles are left on the teeth, this can promote the growth of bacteria that emit toxins that cause inflammation of the gums and eventually lead to the loss of gum tissue and bone tissue. 

In addition to poor oral hygiene, other factors can also contribute to the onset of gum disease. These include genetics, tobacco use, stress, bruxism (teeth grinding), and certain medications. 

If you notice your gums are bleeding, swollen, or tender or you have bad breath, loose teeth, or other signs of gum disease, you should schedule an appointment right away. Our dentist will discuss your treatment options with you. This could include more frequent professional cleanings in combination with at-home care. We may also recommend preventive treatments such as a prescription mouth rinse, oral antibiotics, or a deep cleaning. Contact us today to learn more! 

Signs of Periodontal Disease 

Some of the signs of periodontal disease include: 

• Bleeding gums 
• Bad breath
• Gums that pull away from teeth
• Gums that are red and swollen
• Teeth that are loose or separating
• Teeth that feel loose when chewing
• Teeth that are sensitive to heat or cold
• Pus around the gum line
• Receding gums
• Teeth that are discolored 

What Is Periodontal Care? 

Periodontal care is a specialized form of dental care focused on treating and preventing gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a condition where the gums become inflamed due to bacterial plaque that builds up on the teeth and along the gum line. If left untreated, gum disease can cause irreversible damage to the mouth’s soft tissues. In advanced stages, patients may even lose one or more teeth. 

For patients who are in the early stages of gum disease, periodontal therapy is often recommended as a form of noninvasive treatment to repair the teeth and gums. Techniques used in non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatments are gentle enough to treat mild forms of gum disease without causing discomfort or pain.

While non-surgical treatments are usually completed over several sessions to improve the health of the patient’s mouth, surgical procedures are only used as a last resort to prevent further oral health complications. Patients can discuss with the dentist which treatment option will be best for their case. 

Our periodontal treatments include the following: 

• Scaling and root planning (deep cleaning) 

• Local antibiotics 
• Systemic antibiotics 
• Flap surgery 
• Soft tissue grafts 
• Bone grafts 
• Air abrasion 
• Laser therapy 

To learn more about our dental services or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Russell, call Russell Family Dentistry at (281) 351-5458 or visit us at 29210 Quinn Road, Tomball, TX 77375.