Gealthy gums boost the aesthetics of your teeth. Unfortunately, gum disease can cause gingival recession, swelling, abscesses, and redness. In advanced periodontal disease, the infection can erode the teeth-supporting bone and ligaments, resulting in loose teeth and even tooth loss. 

Clint Bruyere, DDS, in Longview, Texas, understands you need healthy gums to maintain a beautiful smile and optimal oral health. Dr. Bruyere emphasizes gum disease prevention, but if you have gum disease, he offers effective periodontal treatments to restore your gum health. 

How gum disease develops

Dental plaque — a mixture of food debris, saliva, and harmful bacteria — is the primary cause of gum disease. Plaque constantly forms on teeth even minutes after cleaning. If you neglect your oral hygiene, the bacteria found in plaque contain toxins that irritate gums, resulting in numerous symptoms.

The early form of gum disease (gingivitis) only affects the tissues at the gum’s surface and is often less serious. However, when you fail to treat it, it advances to periodontitis. The infection destroys the deeper tissues at this stage, causing receding gums, a wobbly bite, and tooth loss.

Periodontal treatments at Clint Bruyere, DDS

Gingivitis is reversible with diligent brushing, flossing, and standard dental cleanings. However, when the disease progresses from mild infection to moderate and severe, it’s irreversible. 

The possible treatments for advanced gum disease include:

• Deep teeth cleaning: This two-fold procedure is similar to a routine dental cleaning but a bit more extensive. Through scaling and root planing (SRP), the dentist removes dental plaque, dental calculus, and unwanted bacteria to curb gum infection. Scaling uses special instruments to target the areas below the gum line along the root. Root planing polishes tooth roots to promote healing and prevent the attachment of bacteria to the roots
• Antimicrobial therapy: SRP is a stand-alone procedure, but sometimes, your doctor may recommend oral and topical antibiotics to control the growth of bacteria. Dr. Bruyere may place antibiotics in the periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing. In certain situations, oral antibiotics may be prescribed, and it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage even if symptoms improve before completion

When the gingival and bone ligaments are irreversibly damaged, you may need more than deep dental cleaning and antibiotics. When this happens, your dentist will refer you to a periodontist who performs surgery and grafting services.  

Gum disease treatment near me

When your preventive measures fall short, you can trust Clint Bruyere DDS for effective gum disease treatment. Call (903) 708-6116 to schedule an appointment today. 

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