Can My Dentist Cure Gum Disease?

There is a large body of scientific research that testifies to the dangers of gum disease. It can contribute to tooth loss, significant dental pain, and systemic health conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you may rightly wonder, “Can it be cured? Can my periodontist in Huntington Beach completely reverse its effects?” The answers to those questions depends on how far the problem has progressed.

Gingivitis: The Early Stage of Gum Disease

When gum disease first begins, it is known as gingivitis. This is a relatively mild infection in the gum tissue and is characterized by red, swollen gums and other subtle symptoms. For most individuals, gingivitis is nothing to be alarmed about. In fact, it may be completely reversible with some changes to your oral hygiene routine, which your dentist or periodontist can help you implement. You might also need to undergo a deep dental cleaning or other conservative, noninvasive types of gum disease treatment.

Periodontitis: Advanced Gum disease

If gingivitis does not receive timely treatment, it may progress and become periodontitis, which is characterized by permanent damage to both the gums and the bones that support the teeth. The more severe the infection becomes, the more the gums recede and the more the bone weakens and deteriorates. Eventually, periodontitis may reach the point where the jaw is no longer able to adequately support the teeth and extractions become necessary.

Periodontitis may sound scary — and it is. However, even if you are suffering from it, that doesn’t mean there is no hope for your oral health. There are some things your periodontist can do to help you. They may:

• Perform osseous surgery and or/a deep cleaning to rid your mouth of infection
• Perform a gum graft to replace lost gum tissue
• Carry out a bone graft to help your jawbone regain its strength and volume
• Encourage you to attend periodontal maintenance visits 3 – 4 times each year
• Advise you to work with your general physician to manage systemic health conditions that might exacerbate your gum disease

Regaining Dental Function

If you lost one or more teeth due to gum disease, your periodontist may recommend that you receive dental implants. This form of tooth replacement rebuilds lost teeth from the roots up and provides outstanding function and aesthetics. However, before you are a candidate for them, your mouth should be free of any signs of active gum disease.

Gum disease is nothing to take lightly. The sooner you request an appointment with a local periodontist, the greater your chances of being able to preserve your oral health for a lifetime of sound smiles.

Meet the Periodontist

Dr. Justin Braga is a board-certified periodontist who has the training, experience, and skills necessary to help patients address all forms of gum disease, from the mild to the severe. He is also certified to perform dental implant surgery. To learn more about Dr. Braga and how he may be able to help you enjoy all the benefits of a healthy mouth, contact our office at 714-587-9094.