Periodontal Therapy

What Causes Gum Disease?

When bacteria collect in your mouth, a sticky, colorless substance known as “plaque” develops. Plaque builds up on your teeth. If not removed during brushing and flossing, the plaque particles can harden and turn into tartar. Over time, plaque and tartar become more difficult to remove at home. Regular professional cleanings are vital for maintaining oral health and preventing periodontal disease. The longer the plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, the more harm they can cause your oral health. 

Gingivitis

Accumulated plaque and tartar may lead to gingivitis, an early periodontal disease. Gingivitis is a common dental problem that affects millions of people worldwide. With regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene habits, and proper treatment, we can effectively manage gingivitis and even prevent it altogether.

Periodontitis

In cases where gingivitis is not treated early, it can advance to periodontal disease, which you can not reverse but only maintain. Inflammation affects the soft tissue (gums) and teeth, creating pockets between them. If left untreated, the pockets become deep and cause teeth to become loose and eventually fall out.

Signs of Gum Disease

It is essential to recognize the signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, and bleeding gums, to prevent further damage. Treatment options for gum disease include deep cleanings, medication, and surgery in more severe cases. 

It is important to visit Dr. Eric Russell for a complete exam if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Sore, inflamed, or receding gums
• Bleeding while brushing or flossing
• Loose teeth
• Presence of bad breath
• Pockets between the gums and tooth

Treatment

A standard solution for controlling periodontal disease is a deep dental cleaning called “scaling and root planing.” While the procedure is usually painless, in some cases, Dr. Russell may recommend numbing the area for comfort. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth surfaces, and root planing is smoothing the root surfaces.

How Much Does Periodontal Therapy Cost?

How much will periodontal therapy cost you? The answer is more than a one-size-fits-all solution, as the cost will depend on multiple factors. One of the first steps to receiving periodontal therapy is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Russel. During this consultation, he will assess the severity of your gum disease and recommend a treatment plan. 

The good news is that many insurance plans may cover some of the cost. Don’t let cost deter you from seeking treatment for healthy gums. Talk to us to find out more about the options available to you.

Periodontal Therapy in South Ogden

Gum disease is a common and severe dental issue that a combination of factors can cause, including poor oral hygiene habits, certain medical conditions, and lifestyle choices. The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is easily reversible with proper oral care. However, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss and other complications. Once you reach this advanced stage, you cannot completely reverse gum disease. With proper at-home care combined with regular in-office maintenance, Dr. Russell can prevent the disease from progressing and leading to tooth loss. 

By understanding the causes and signs of gum disease, South Weber Dental can take proactive steps toward protecting our teeth and gums for years. So remember to brush twice daily, floss daily, and schedule regular dental checkups in South Ogden, Utah, with our team to keep your smile healthy and bright! We are your one-stop shop for all your general and cosmetic dentistry needs.