Comprehensive Periodontal Disease Treatment in West Newton

If you're experiencing the effects of gum disease, you understand how deeply it can affect both your oral health and your overall well-being. At West Newton Dental Associates, we proudly provide skilled gum disease treatment. Our comprehensive approach to care includes scaling and root planing as well as ongoing maintenance cleanings. Whether you've recently noticed symptoms or want to know if periodontitis is reversible, we're here for you. We are committed to evaluating your unique needs and recommending periodontal procedures that support healthier gums and a stronger smile. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward improved oral health!

CALL US: (617) 379-6112 REQUEST APPOINTMENT

Can Periodontitis Be Reversed?

Unfortunately, periodontitis is irreversible, but there are various treatment options available. It's important to understand the distinction between periodontitis and gingivitis. When gum disease is in its earliest stage, it's called gingivitis and is reversible with treatment. If gingivitis is left unaddressed, it can advance to periodontitis, which is irreversible and can cause everything from deep pockets to receding gums. However, our dental practice provides skilled treatment to stop infection from spreading and restore your gum health through procedures like scaling and root planing. We'll give you all the information you need to understand periodontitis and make confident decisions to address it.

The word periodontal means “around the tooth”.  Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth.  Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar).  When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone.  Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.  Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.  Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
• New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
• Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
• Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
• Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
• Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
• Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.
• Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

CALL US: (617) 379-6112 REQUEST APPOINTMENT

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