Make your gums a priority: Protecting your smile by preventing gum disease
The teeth may seem to be the “stars” of the show in the dental world. However, the gums play an essential “supporting role.” Due to the importance of these gingival tissues, Wes Park Family Dentistry prioritizes protecting the health of the gums from damage. Notably, our team in Perry, Georgia, strives to stay ahead of gum disease.
This destructive condition is highly preventable. Even after it has developed, we can intervene to reverse its effects—as long as this progressive condition is caught and addressed early in the disease process. Once bone is lost due to periodontal disease, treatment is essential to regenerate the tissues surrounding, supporting, and protecting the teeth and providing structure to the face and jaws.
How can I keep my gums healthy?
Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky bacterial film that constantly forms on teeth. Since bacteria and the starches and sugars in food promote the development of plaque, it is important to brush and floss consistently to remove lingering food particles. It is also essential to maintain regular professional cleanings and check-ups at our office. Once the plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed with special tools and techniques courtesy of professionals like our dental hygienists.
How do I know if my gums are healthy?
During regular check-ups, Dr. Bryce Westmoreland will also conduct a thorough exam. Dr. Westmoreland evaluates the condition of your gums. Generally, healthy gums are pinkish-red (not too red), firm, and not painful. They do not bleed when you touch them or brush and floss at the gumline.
That said, many oral problems, including gum disease, are insidious. Only Dr. Westmoreland can confirm that your gums are truly healthy. Early-stage gum disease or gingivitis is often asymptomatic, or the signs may be so subtle that they are easy to ignore. Our team applies considerable expertise and technologies to make an accurate and early diagnosis, which then informs prompt and effective treatment.
Keep your gums healthy
Stay ahead of gum disease by taking preventive measures. Maintain your routine hygiene appointment at our office in Perry, GA, and prevent the need for serious treatments.
What treatments are available at Wes Park Family Dentistry?
Well, the recommended treatment very much depends on the severity of your gum disease. In its earliest stage, inflammation may be effectively resolved with modifications to hygiene or the introduction of prescription or medical products to fight harmful bacteria. Without prompt treatment, gum disease can progress to its advanced form, periodontitis, characterized by infection and a breakdown of the soft and hard tissues.
To prevent complications such as tooth loss, procedures such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and periodontal surgery may be needed, with or without the assistance of a special soft tissue laser. Generally, SRP and other non-surgical interventions halt earlier forms of the disease to prevent deterioration of the gums and bone. Surgical interventions are largely advised to heal and regenerate deteriorated or lost tissues.
Maintaining routine hygiene appointments at our office in Perry, GA, can prevent treatment of any kind.
FAQs
Is periodontal disease common?
If you have gum disease, you are not alone. Gum disease is extremely common. Nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease. The risk increases with age. By age 65, about 70% of adults have it. Many people don’t feel pain initially, so they don’t realize there’s a problem until they visit a dentist. Regular exams are the best way to catch it early.
Can gum disease cause systemic illnesses?
Yes! Research indicates a strong correlation between periodontal disease and overall systemic health. Gum disease has been linked to several systemic illnesses, including:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer’s
- Dementia
- Stroke
- Respiratory problems.
- Pregnancy complications
Gum infections can affect the rest of the body. So, treating gum disease helps protect your overall health.
Does smoking increase the risk of gum disease?
Yes. Smokers are twice as likely to develop gum disease compared to non-smokers. Smoking inhibits your body’s ability to fight infections, including periodontal disease. Tobacco also contains chemicals that slow down healing, so patients don’t recover quickly, making treatment less effective.
Does pregnancy cause gum disease?
Pregnancy does not cause gum disease. However, hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive to plaque buildup. This can lead to pregnancy gingivitis. About 60–75% of pregnant women experience some level of gum irritation. Regular cleanings and proper home care can help maintain your gum health throughout pregnancy.
Can periodontal disease return after treatment?
Yes! Gum disease can recur without good maintenance. Treatment controls the infection, but ongoing care is essential. Once you overcome gum disease, you need periodontal maintenance and optimal oral hygiene to keep the disease from coming back.
What is scaling and root planing (SRP)?
SRP is a non-surgical treatment for moderate to advanced gum disease. Scaling removes deep-seated plaque and tartar from the deep periodontal pockets. Root planing smooths the root surfaces, allowing the gums to reattach. SRP helps fight off the infection and halt the progression of gum disease into advanced stages. It is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments.
Is periodontal therapy painful?
Many patients report minimal discomfort. Our team uses a gentle approach and anesthesia to optimize your comfort. However, you may experience some sensitivity, swelling, and bruising after a deep teeth cleaning. Our team will provide aftercare tips to ensure a seamless recovery. Many patients resume their everyday life after a few days, but the gums may need several weeks to heal completely.
How much does gum disease treatment cost in Perry, Georgia?
Like every dental procedure, the cost of treating gum disease depends on several factors. Your treatment cost depends on the severity of the gum disease and the treatment required. Our team will provide a cost breakdown after consultation. We are transparent with our pricing to help you budget effectively and proceed with confidence.
Does insurance cover gum disease treatment?
Our patients have various insurance plans, making it challenging to provide a definitive answer upfront. Your dental insurance may cover all or part of the cost of your gum disease. However, this is just a guideline. Consult with your provider or our team to establish the scope of your coverage.
Who offers gum disease treatment in Perry, Georgia?
Gum disease can affect the foundation of your smile, including your gums and underlying bone. Don't wait until gum disease compromises your oral health. Call (478) 488-3561 and schedule your periodontal consultation with Wes Park Family Dentistry. We proudly serve patients from Perry, Fort Valley, Butler, Danville, Marion, Lizella, Kathleen, Centerville, Marshallville, Byron, Warner Robins, Oglethorpe, Montezuma, and surrounding locations.
Bryce Westmoreland, DMD
Dr. Bryce Westmoreland earned his BSA in Biological Science with Honors from the University of Georgia and completed his DMD at the Dental College of Georgia, where he also served as Chief Resident during his General Practice Residency. He specializes in implant placement surgeries and restorations and has furthered his expertise through the AAID MAXI course. He and his team are known for their friendly, gentle, and empathetic care, creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients receive the highest quality treatments.
He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
