Periodontal Disease Treatment

Our holistic approach at Eagle Dental Texas prioritizes prevention and early intervention as the best ways to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, gum disease is widespread and affects nearly half of all US adults over age 30. Early symptoms can be so subtle that you may not even realize they have it until a dentist or hygienist detects it. 

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammation and infection of the gums and structures that support your teeth. Left untreated, it can progress to the point where you are at serious risk for tooth loss. 

The Oral-Systemic Connection

It's crucial for your overall health and wellness to understand that periodontal disease doesn't just affect your mouth; chronic gum inflammations are linked to numerous systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, Alzheimer's, and dementia.

With prompt treatment at our Sugar Land, TX, dental office, we can halt the progression of the disease and protect your overall health and well-being.

How Gum Disease Develops and Symptoms

Gum disease develops when plaque, a sticky, bacteria-filled film, builds up on your teeth. If you don't remove plaque with regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Bacteria in tartar cause gum inflammation and infection, and you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Loose teeth

Gum Disease Stages and Treatment

Periodontal disease is progressive, and our holistic approach ensures we provide the most effective treatment for each stage.

Early Gum Disease: Gingivitis

In the initial stage, called gingivitis, the inflammation only infects your gums. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with professional dental cleanings and improved at-home oral care. Our hygienist will give you a refresher on how to brush and floss properly so you can maintain a healthy smile.

Early Periodontitis

Untreated, gingivitis advances, and pockets open between the teeth and gums. As the pockets deepen, the inflammation begins to damage the supporting structures of your teeth. 

This stage is called periodontitis and is not reversible, but we can help prevent it from progressing. Our dentists or hygienist will recommend a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. This type of cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the tooth roots to promote gum reattachment. After ozone therapy, we use gentle dental lasers to help heal the pockets, tighten tissue, and form new fibers. 

Treatment for periodontitis is ongoing, and we will recommend more frequent teeth cleanings at our Sugar Land dental office. These appointments allow us to monitor your gum health and remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Advanced Periodontitis

In severe cases, gum disease can result in tooth loss and damage to the jawbone. Dr. John and Dr. Rodriguez may recommend more advanced treatments like gum surgery, bone grafting, or tooth replacement options.

Ozone Therapy: Enhancing Periodontal Treatment

Ozone is a highly reactive form of oxygen and a powerful addition to traditional periodontal treatments. Ozone has strong antimicrobial properties that can effectively eliminate the bacteria present in gum disease. 

Incorporating ozone therapy helps promote faster gum healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance your body's natural ability to fight infections. 

Preventing Gum Disease: A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

Maintaining a healthy mouth is crucial for preventing gum disease and includes the following: 

  • Brushing twice daily for two minutes 
  • Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque between teeth
  • Scheduling dental checkups and cleanings every six months
  • Eating a balanced diet
  • Avoiding tobacco products and excessive alcohol consumption

Have You Noticed Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Prevention is the key to avoiding gum disease, but we understand that not everyone takes perfect care of their teeth. You can be confident that we will never lecture or judge you, but we will provide caring treatment and support you in your journey to a healthier smile. 

Please call Eagle Dental Texas at (281) 494-9191 to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment with one of our gentle hygienists.