Gum Disease Treatment Tacoma
Targeting Infected Gums for Better Oral Health
As the leading cause of tooth loss among adults, gum disease is a growing problem that is frequently overlooked or dismissed by patients who remain unfamiliar with its various symptoms. While Dr. Miller and our team aim to provide early detection to avoid the spread of infection, we also offer gum disease treatment for cases that require more advanced care. Call our office to schedule an appointment if you notice bleeding and swollen gums.
Why Choose Commencement Bay Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Dental Technologies Designed for Improved Patient Comfort
- Esteemed Dentist with Decades of Experience
- CareCredit Dental Financing to Help Lower Costs
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the gums and bone that supports teeth, and it usually starts early in life and then progresses as a person ages. It all starts when plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus) below the gumline. This irritates vulnerable soft tissues, resulting in inflammation and potential periodontal disease and infection. Combined with decaying food particles lodged between teeth and bacteria emitted by plaque, the infection can spread quickly.
Symptoms are so mild in the early phase that many patients don't recognize them: red, tender, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing teeth. As the condition progresses, gums recede from teeth, and pockets of bacteria form. The bacteria can destroy gum tissue and bone, causing tooth and bone loss.
Why is Gum Disease So Serious?
Recent research reveals that gum disease is linked to increased risk for major overall health problems, including but not limited to stroke, heart disease, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, diabetes complications, low birth weight, and most recently, dementia. Because of these findings, research continues. We may learn much more in the next few years.
Gum disease is linked to overall health problems. The mouth is like a portal to the body. That's why regular checkups and hygiene visits are vital to not only oral health but also overall health.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing (periodontal therapy) is commonly referred to as deep cleaning and is used when signs of gum pocket formation and recession are evident. The two-part process removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and gumline as well as the roots of affected teeth. This not only makes it more difficult for bacteria to re-adhere in the future, but the gums can begin to reattach to the teeth and heal properly. The frequency interval for the periodontal therapy following scaling and root planing is determined by each individual patient’s needs, and ranges from three to six month intervals.