Claire Williams, DMD
General Dentist & Family Dentist located in
Creve Coeur, St Louis, MO
Periodontal disease can cause gum erosion, pain, and eventually even tooth or bone loss if you don’t get treatment fast. At Claire Williams, DMD, in St. Louis, periodontal disease screenings are a regular part of dental care because they allow you to start treatment early enough to prevent serious health consequences. Book your appointment using the online scheduler or by calling the office today.
Periodontal Disease Q & A
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is also called gum disease. There are two general types of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the most common form of periodontal disease. In gingivitis, you generally have red and swollen gums. You may also tend to bleed when you brush your teeth. Gingivitis can also cause bad breath. If you don't treat gingivitis, the damage can rapidly worsen to become periodontitis.
Periodontitis occurs when plaque and tartar expands and gets below your gums. Periodontitis causes all the same problems like gingivitis, but it's much worse because it can also cause gum loss, tooth loss, and bone loss.
You can treat periodontal disease, but a prompt response when you notice problems is essential. It's also important to have twice-yearly checkups with Dr. Williams so she can identify early periodontal disease and treat you right away.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease develops due to bacteria. The same bacteria that causes plaque on your teeth can quickly turn into tartar if it's not removed, and it can build up to get into your gums around the gum line or even below the gum line. A regular brushing and flossing routine is the best way to prevent periodontal disease.
How is periodontal disease diagnosed?
Dr. Williams does periodontal disease screenings during your regular checkups. She examines your teeth and uses a specialized probe to check for problems in your gums. She also uses X-ray imaging to verify periodontal disease and to look for deeper changes like tooth root damage or bone damage in your jaw.
What is the treatment for periodontal disease?
Usually, treatment starts with a professional cleaning. A dental cleaning removes built-up tartar from your teeth and beneath your gums. Dr. Williams often recommends antibacterial mouth rinse for patients with serious periodontal disease. In some cases, she may also prescribe oral antibiotics or an antibacterial gel to help you get rid of the harmful bacteria.
In the most severe cases of periodontitis, you might need surgery to extract the pockets of infection hidden deep under your gum line. After your periodontal disease is well controlled, it's important to maintain a careful brushing and flossing routine to keep your gums (and the rest of your mouth) healthy long term.
Click online booking or call the office of Claire Williams, DMD, for periodontal disease help today.
