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Can You Cure Periodontal Disease?

Inflamed Gums

Can You Cure Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss. It is the result of plaque and tartar on the teeth remaining on your teeth and under your gums. (Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth at the gum line. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that very difficult to remove without the help of a dentist.) If you don’t treat periodontal disease, it will likely progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that can cause the gums to recede, the bones that support the teeth to break down, and teeth to become loose. If you have been diagnosed with this dental condition, you are probably wondering “Can you cure periodontal disease?” In some cases, gum disease is curable, but it is more likely that you will have to manage it throughout your life.  

Stages of Gum Disease

There are four stages of gum disease that get progressively worse as you go up the scale. Each stage has different symptoms and treatments, but they all require seeking professional dental help.

Stage I Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is reversble with good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings.

Stage II

In mild periodontitis, the gums have pulled away from the teeth, forming pockets that are difficult to clean. These pockets can collect plaque and tartar, which can further damage the gums and bones. Mild periodontitis is treatable with scaling and root planing, but you’ll likely need to schedule an extra dentist appointment each year

Stage III

In moderate periodontitis, the pockets around the teeth are deeper than in mild periodontitis. The bones that support the teeth have begun to break down. During this stage, you will also begin to experience tooth-loss. Moderate periodontitis can be treated with scaling and root planing and antibiotics, but the damage is irreversible, naturally.  

Stage IV

In severe periodontitis, the pockets around the teeth are very deep. The bones that support the teeth have broken down significantly causing significant tooth-loos. Severe periodontitis requires surgery to remove and replace the infected tissue and bone.  

What Can Your Dentist Do for Periodontal Disease?

Your dentist can do a number of things to treat periodontal disease, including:
  • Scaling and root planing: This procedure removes plaque and tartar from the teeth, below the gum line.
  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics can be used to kill the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
  • Gum surgery: Gum surgery can be used to remove infected tissue and bone, and to reattach the gums to the teeth.
  • Bone grafting: Bone grafting can be used to replace bone that has been lost due to periodontitis.

Home Care for Gum Disease

There are a number of things you can do at home to help prevent and manage periodontal disease, including:
  • Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time.
  • Floss your teeth once a day.
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste.
  • See your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Manage stress.
By following these tips, you can help keep your gums healthy and prevent periodontal disease.

Gum Disease Treatment in Point Pleasant, NJ

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. During a checkup, your dentist will clean your teeth, check for cavities, and look for any signs of gum disease. Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss. Book a visit with Coastal Dental Group in Point Pleasant, New Jersey today to make sure you aren’t showing early signs of periodontal disease. We offer a variety of dental services, including cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and more.

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information call (732) 714-1030 or to schedule an appointment!