Gum Disease Treatment in Alpharetta, GA
Tooth loss is not inevitable, though many do associate this problem with age. The truth is that we each have a great deal of control over the longevity and overall health of our smile. One of the conditions Dr. Hepler and his friendly team discuss with our patients is gum disease.
Gum disease is one of the most common causes of tooth loss in adults. This condition is, however, also preventable with good oral care.
During routine care, your dentist and your hygienist will perform a careful assessment of your teeth and gums. As needed, specific periodontal therapy will be recommended to address identified concerns. Our hope is to catch gum disease in its earliest stage, gingivitis. At this time, plaque and bacteria have caused inflammation to your gum tissue around your teeth. With a focused professional cleaning and guidance on home care, infection can be prevented at this point. For this reason, routine dental visits on a six-month or more frequent basis are very important to your oral health and your whole body health.
Safeguard your smile. Don’t wait for obvious signs of infection. Schedule your checkup at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health today.
Treatment for gum disease is available from our skilled dental team. The way in which gum disease is treated depends on the extent of the infection in your teeth and gums and on the damage that has already happened to your oral tissues. Early treatment is more conservative and can save you the stress and pain of tooth loss.
The Atlanta Center for Dental Health in Alpharetta offers a number of periodontal treatments:
- Scaling and root planing is the first line of defense against mild to moderate gum disease. This deep cleaning, performed gently by our skilled hygienist, eliminates accumulated plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces both above and below the gum line.
- Gum grafting involves replacing the gum tissues lost to extensive recession that has led to exposed tooth root surfaces. The new tissue will naturally integrate into surrounding tissues for enhanced protection of the root.
- Laser treatment is an excellent option for the removal of diseased tissue. Due to the rapid, focused impact of laser energy on oral tissues, this approach offers a number of advantages to conventional gum surgery.
Obtaining suitable treatment for gum disease can keep you from suffering discomfort, chronic bad breath, and numerous health concerns related to the passage of oral bacteria into the body. An unhealthy mouth leads to an unhealthy body. Proper management of this condition is designed to minimize the impact of oral bacteria and prevent tooth loss and systemic disease.
In addition to treatment options for the management of gum disease, patients of Dr. Hepler may improve the look and health of their smile with periodontal treatments such as crown lengthening or periodontal plastic surgery. These procedures involve the reshaping of the gum tissue in order to reveal more or less tooth structure for a naturally beautiful smile.
We believe in helping you enjoy your best smile!
Dr. Hepler and the Atlanta Center for Dental Health team want you to enjoy a smile that looks good and feels healthy. We are happy to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques with you during your routine appointments. We can also provide assistance in the selection of oral care products including the type of toothbrush that may be most effective based on your needs and dexterity.
We encourage our patients to visit us regularly and to engage in healthy habits in the months between professional checkups. Habits like smoking or consuming acidic foods and beverages can weaken teeth and gums. Low sugar, naturally crunchy foods can have a cleansing effect that promotes oral health.
Frequently Asked Question About Gum Disease Treatment
Is gum disease contagious?
Not in the traditional sense. You can’t “catch” it like a cold or flu. However, the gum disease-causing bacteria can be passed from one person to another through saliva. Sharing utensils, toothbrushes, or kissing may transfer these bacteria, especially if one person has an active infection. Additionally, putting spoons and dummies in your mouth before sharing with your child can transfer the bacteria.
The good news? Exposure to these harmful bacteria doesn’t automatically mean you’ll get gum disease. A strong immunity, good oral hygiene, and routine cleanings help keep these pathogens under control.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
You don’t have to dread gum disease treatment. We use gentle techniques and powerful anesthetics to ensure a comfortable dental experience. If you are anxious or your treatment involves complex procedures, we offer oral conscious sedation to make the experience worry-free. You may feel soreness and sensitivity afterward, but we’ll provide aftercare instructions to help you recover smoothly. Our goal is to keep you comfortable at every step.
Does gum disease treatment always involve surgery?
Rarely. We can treat many cases without surgery. Deep cleanings, also called scaling and root planing, are often effective in early to moderate stages. We recommend surgical procedures, such as pocket reduction and gum grafting, when the pockets are too deep or the damage is too severe. Surgery is only an option if gum disease doesn’t respond to conservative options.
Does pregnancy cause gum disease?
Pregnancy doesn’t cause gum disease, but hormonal changes during this period can increase your risk. Gums may become more sensitive and prone to inflammation, heightening the risk of pregnancy gingivitis. To keep your gums healthy during this time, maintain good oral hygiene, eat a healthy diet, and keep up with regular dental visits.
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes. At a minimum, periodontal disease causes gum redness, swelling, bleeding, and bad breath. When allowed to thrive, the infection moves beneath the surface, attacking the underlying ligaments and bone. Without these supporting structures, your teeth become loose and eventually fall out. Prompt treatment prevents tooth loss and other complications.
Is gum disease a chronic condition?
It can be. Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible. However, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) is a long-term condition that requires ongoing care, including good oral hygiene and periodontal maintenance. While advanced gum disease can be managed, the best way to preserve your gum health is through prevention and early disease treatment.
Does insurance cover periodontal care?
Many insurance plans cover part of gum disease treatment. However, the exact coverage varies by plan. Our team will help you understand your benefits and maximize your coverage.
How does periodontal disease affect my systemic health?
Having a healthy mouth is one of the pillars of a healthy body. When you have oral health issues such as gum disease, it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, diabetes, and other systemic conditions. Gum disease prevention and treatment supports your whole-body health.
How can I prevent gum disease in the future?
If you want to achieve healthy gums, ensure you add these things to your oral care regimen:
- Brush your teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth with dental floss or a water flosser
- Eat healthy foods and reduce consumption of sugary foods and drinks
- Adhere to regular dental check-ups and cleanings
- Quit all tobacco products
- Keep immune-suppressing conditions like diabetes under control
Where can I get gum disease treatment near me in Alpharetta, GA?
Atlanta Center for Dental Health offers effective, personalized periodontal care to patients in Alpharetta, Roswell, Cumming, Milton, Johns Creek, and the nearby areas. If you notice signs like swollen, bleeding, or receding gums, don’t wait. Call (866) 687-1992 and seek periodontal care from our dental team.
