Gum Disease Treatment – Irving, TX
Stop the Infection and Save Your Smile
Did you know tooth decay isn’t the only threat to your dental health? Gum disease is equally devastating without quick intervention. In fact, it’s the leading cause of tooth loss. Unfortunately, the effects of the infection don’t stop in your mouth. It can also harm your general health. Although gum disease in Irving is preventable, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 50% of adults have a form of the infection. Thankfully, Dr. Rafiq can save your smile with gum disease treatment in Irving, so call us today.
Why Choose Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental and Orthodontics for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Our Dental Team is Caring & Gentle
- Personalized Approach to Ensure Full Patient Comprehension
- Enhanced Technology & Comfort Amenities Available
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum (periodontal) disease is a preventable infection of the gingival tissue that results from poor oral hygiene. When plaque isn’t removed regularly, it hardens and turns to tartar, which harbors bacteria. It will infect the gum tissue, leading to inflammation, redness, and bleeding.
Although the signs of gum disease may not seem alarming at first, serious complications will occur if you don’t get treatment. If it spreads deeper into the oral tissues, it will destroy the supporting structures of your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. The bacteria can also enter the bloodstream, wreaking havoc on your health. You will develop an increased risk of several health issues, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetic complications.
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease can be treated quickly without causing any long-term damage with early intervention. It’s best to contact your dentist for gum disease treatment in Irving as soon as you notice any symptoms, which can include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath
- Pus pockets near the gumline
- Receding gumline
- Tooth sensitivity
- Loose teeth
Scaling & Root Planing
Also known as deep cleaning, scaling and root planing involves two procedures. First, the scaling portion of the treatment removes tartar buildup above the gumline using a special dental instrument. This cleans the gingival pockets and removes bacteria to start the healing process.
Finally, root planing is performed to encourage the gum tissue to reattach to the teeth. A dental instrument is used to smooth the root surfaces to discourage future buildup while also allowing the gums to reseal to cover your roots.
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, you may need antibiotic therapy. Dr. Rafiq will recommend a specific prescribed medication based on your individual needs to kill the infection. This will preserve the gum tissue and help prevent tooth loss.
Besides in-office treatment, you’ll need to make changes to your oral hygiene routine at home. You may also need more frequent dental cleanings and checkups to prevent the infection from reoccurring.