Can Gum Disease Be Cured?
Gum or periodontal disease is a common oral health concern affecting many people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to serious oral health complications, including gum or tooth pain, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. At Cream City Dental, we provide periodontal care maintenance to prevent the infection and inflammation from progressing, maintaining your gum health.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is a serious progressive infection that affects the tissues supporting the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bones. It typically begins with plaque buildup, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
The earliest stage of gum disease, a condition known as gingivitis, is characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Left untreated, the condition can progress to periodontitis, a more devastating form of gum disease. Periodontitis can cause gums to recede, teeth to loosen, and may even lead to tooth loss. If the infection makes its way into the bloodstream, it can lead to serious health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
While gum disease cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed and controlled with proper treatment and ongoing care. At Cream City Dental, our goal is to prevent any further damage to your gums and the structures supporting your teeth.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
Periodontal treatment is crucial in managing gum disease and preventing its progression. The sooner we deal with early signs of gum disease, the better the outcome. We typically start with a non-surgical deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. During this procedure, we remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and root surfaces, then we clean and smooth the root surfaces to promote healing and prevent further plaque and bacteria buildup.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
After treatment, most of our patients require periodontal maintenance appointments every three to four months to manage their condition and prevent its progression. During your visits, we will clean your teeth, evaluate your gum health, and measure the depth of periodontal pockets. Dr. Ibrahem will ensure your condition is stable and will intervene, as needed, to maintain your gum health.
What Is the Importance of Periodontal Maintenance?
Here’s a look at some of the reasons our team at Cream City Dental emphasizes the importance of periodontal maintenance:
- Maintains Your Gum Health: Regular periodontal maintenance can help prevent gum disease from advancing and causing irreversible damage to your gums and the structures supporting your teeth.
- Controls Your Inflammation: Removing plaque and tartar from your gum line and tooth root surfaces reduces inflammation in the gums, improving your oral health and reducing the risk of chronic health problems associated with gum disease.
- Preserves Your Oral Health: Maintaining healthy gums is essential for keeping your natural teeth. Periodontal maintenance helps protect the stability and longevity of your teeth, preventing tooth loss in the long run.
- Is Personalized to Your Needs: Every patient’s oral health needs are unique. During periodontal maintenance appointments, we can address individual concerns, provide customized advice, and recommend specific oral hygiene practices.
Periodontal Care Near Me in Wauwatosa, WI
If you would like to learn more about gum health or periodontal maintenance, contact Cream City Dental today. Dr. Ibrahem and his team are committed to providing top-notch, gentle care to ensure you are served well and comfortably throughout any procedure. We are all about maintaining your gum health and your overall health. We invite you to call us at 414-476-4777 to schedule your appointment or request one online today.