Gum health | falls church, va
periodontal therapy
periodontal therapy
At Purple Plum Dentistry, we take gum health very seriously. Our in-house periodontist makes this type of specialty care very convenient and comfortable. If you are in the greater Washington D.C. area and are in need of assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
treat gum disease with periodontal therapy
Your smile is made up of more than just teeth – there’s also the gum tissue, which supports them and helps them thrive and function. Unfortunately, infection can find its way into this vulnerable area of the mouth at a gradual pace, resulting in periodontal (gum) disease. While gum disease may not seem overtly dangerous at first blush, untreated cases can cause severe, lasting consequences for not only your smile, but your overall health too.
What is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy encompasses a range of treatments aimed at combating periodontal disease, a condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Left untreated, this disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues. At Purple Plum Dentistry, our approach to periodontal therapy is both preventive and restorative. We focus on stopping the progression of gum disease and repairing the damage it has caused.
Gum Graft Surgery
For patients with severe gum recession, gum graft surgery can be an effective solution. This surgical procedure involves taking tissue, often from the roof of the mouth, and grafting it onto the affected gum areas. Gum graft surgery not only covers exposed roots to reduce sensitivity, but also helps prevent further gum deterioration and improve the appearance of your smile.
Benefits of Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal therapy offers several significant benefits that extend beyond just oral health. Here are four key benefits:
One of the primary benefits of periodontal therapy is the prevention of tooth loss. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to the destruction of the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth.
Periodontal disease is associated with chronic inflammation, which can have adverse effects on overall health. By treating periodontal disease, patients can reduce systemic inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of related health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Periodontal therapy helps improve oral hygiene by thoroughly cleaning the pockets around the teeth, which are difficult to clean with regular brushing and flossing alone.
Healthier gums appear firm and pink, which contributes to an overall more attractive smile. Additionally, periodontal treatment can stabilize teeth and prevent further recession, helping patients maintain a youthful and confident appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Periodontal therapy encompasses a range of treatments aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal (gum) disease. It typically involves procedures such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), periodontal surgery, and maintenance care. The goal is to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, reduce bacterial growth, and promote healing of the gum tissue.
Common signs that you may need periodontal therapy include persistent bad breath, red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, receding gums, loose or shifting teeth, and discomfort while chewing. A thorough dental examination, including periodontal probing and X-rays, can help determine the presence and severity of periodontal disease and whether therapy is necessary.
Periodontal therapy is generally well-tolerated, but some procedures may cause discomfort. Local anesthesia is often used during treatments like scaling and root planing to minimize pain. Post-procedure discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, and your dentist may provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
The duration and frequency of periodontal therapy depend on the severity of the disease and the specific treatments required. Scaling and root planing may be completed in one to several visits. Recovery time varies; mild discomfort and sensitivity may last for a few days to a week. More extensive surgical procedures may require a longer healing period, with follow-up visits to monitor progress and ensure successful outcomes.