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Periodontal Therapy Sandy Springs, GA

Periodontal Therapy An Overview

At Proud Smiles in Sandy Springs, we believe in the importance of gum health. Healthy gums are the support for healthy teeth.

Preventive dental care plays an important role in maintaining gum health, providing the opportunity on a routine basis for Dr. Paulen and her staff to spot gum disease in the early stages when conservative treatment can be comfortable and cost-effective. Changes in gum health can also be an indicator of changes in systemic health such as diabetes, cancer, or auto-immune disorders.

Dr. Paulen educates her patients on the link between oral health and overall health, stressing the proven association between gum disease, heart disease, and stroke. Gum disease can also have an impact on pregnancy health and outcome. Maintaining healthy gums is important for dental health and good quality of life.

Catching gum disease early on in development can prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. If you notice any changes in your oral health, be sure to contact Dr. Paulen immediately. Read more about the Oral-Systemic Connection.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Receding gums
  • Loose or shifted teeth
  • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Changes in the fit of dentures
  • Sores in the mouth

Diagnosed early, we can treat gum disease with a thorough dental cleaning. Left untreated, gum disease has been tied to various oral and systemic diseases, including cardiovascular disease.

Periodontal Therapy What to Expect

For early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, Dr. Paulen may recommend additional, more detailed dental cleanings and an antibacterial rinse or natural anti-oxidant Perioscience salve. In some cases, a scaling and root planing procedure may be necessary to remove plaque from the deeper pockets of the gum and prevent further damage.

A prescription-strength anesthetic gel now eliminates the need for injection for comfort. The subsequent use of a diode laser, BioLase, can facilitate quick and comfortable healing.

If periodontitis, advanced gum disease, is present, Dr. Paulen may recommend more invasive treatment to restore oral health. When appropriate, we coordinate treatment with a local periodontist.

Periodontal Therapy FAQs

Is periodontal disease contagious?

No. Periodontal disease itself is not contagious. Although, you can possibly expose someone to this disease through saliva if the other person has compromised oral health or weak gums. Bacteria in your saliva that causes periodontal disease can be transferred to another person, but it won’t guarantee that they will get periodontal disease.

Is gum disease manageable and reversible?

Yes. This oral disease is reversible and easily managed if caught early in progression. Your dentist can recommend effective and non-invasive gum treatments to stop the progression of periodontal disease.

Can gum disease cause tooth loss?

Yes, although this is not common in the early stages of gum disease. You are more likely to lose teeth in the later stages, such as advanced periodontitis. Most patients avoid tooth loss and necessary tooth extractions when they get their gum disease treated and under control before it becomes advanced periodontitis and requires oral surgery.