Periodontal Disease Treatment Options for Better Oral Health

Oral health issues should never be ignored, as the longer you go without treatment, the greater the chances of losing your teeth. Periodontal disease is one of the most common but treatable oral issues, but often requires immediate attention from your dentist. If you are struggling with periodontal disease in Downtown, DC and Foggy Bottom, DC, there is help at West End Dental.

Periodontal disease 101

Periodontal disease refers to an oral issue caused by various conditions. The issue often requires attention to help prevent further compilations in your mouth, such as tooth loss or receding gums. You also put your gum and jaw health in danger should you fail to see a dentist as soon as symptoms arise. Like most dental issues, periodontal diseases arise from poor oral hygiene and the excessive consumption of junk food. Other activities, such as smoking or excessive alcohol intake, can also make you prone to periodontal disease.

What are the signs of periodontal disease?

It is advisable to consult a dentist at West End Dental when you first detect something out of the ordinary in your mouth. Common symptoms associated with periodontal disease may include:

• Bad breath
• Swollen gums
• Pain when chewing
• Spaces in some of your teeth
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth

Your gum lines can also help you identify a periodontal issue. That is, when you notice a section or entire part of the gum receding, you should seek immediate help. Teeth not fitting together properly could also be a sign or periodontal disease in which seeking services from the dental providers at West End Dental is necessary.

Diagnosis of periodontal disease

West End Dental has various tools to help identify and treat periodontal disease using a wide range of effective techniques. Diagnosis begins with a thorough examination and a critical procedure called periodontal probing, with said probing involving use of a small ruler to check the size of the spaces and pockets from one tooth to the other so as to fully understand the extent of your dental damage. When you show large pockets, you have an adverse form of periodontal disease needing to be addressed quickly.

Other tools used in dental examinations include x-rays, which target your jawline to check for damage in that region.

Treatment options for periodontal disease

West End Dental has various treatments to offer that depend on the severity of the condition you present with. The most common treatments include:

• Antibiotic therapy

In this technique, your dentist will use dissolving antibiotics in the gums to help fight infection and prevent periodontal disease from getting worse.

• Scaling and root planing

This is one of the simplest and most fitting procedures for mild cases of periodontal disease, as it involves removing plaque and other stains on your teeth to help the gums grow better.

Periodontal disease is one of the most underrated dental issues. When ignored, however, it can  lead to your becoming dependent on implants to even chew your food. You can avoid all of this by creating a partnership with West End Dental. Just be sure to call the center or book your appointment online today to begin your journey towards better oral health.