Gum Disease Treatment – Copperas Cove, TX
Stopping Gum Disease in Its Tracks
When you don’t brush and floss as thoroughly and regularly as you should, the resulting plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease. At its earliest stages, only the gums are affected, meaning the issue can easily be reversed if treated properly. However, advanced gum disease can penetrate your oral tissues and eventually destroy the bone and membrane supporting the teeth. Cove Choice Dental offers a number of solutions for gum disease so that we can save your smile and stop further damage. Call us to learn more about gums disease treatment in Copperas Cove, TX.
Why Choose Cove Choice Dental for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Minimally Invasive Alternatives
- Dental Insurance Welcome
- High Quality Care
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is more or less a bacterial infection that starts in the mouth. Oral bacteria produce acid that eats away at the gums, causing irritation, swelling, and even recession. Over time, the bacteria can harden into plaque and tartar, which are more difficult to remove with a simple toothbrush. If a case of gum disease reaches this advanced stage, you’ll need professional treatment in order to restore your oral health.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The best way to know whether you have gum disease is to schedule a checkup with your dentist in Copperas Cove. That said, there are noticeable symptoms that could indicate you need treatment, such as:
- Red, puffy gums
- Small amounts of blood when you brush or floss
- Teeth that appear longer than normal
- Increased dental sensitivity
- Teeth that feel loose or have shifted
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
The treatment we recommend will ultimately depend on the severity of your case. After performing a thorough oral exam, we’ll have a better idea of how best to address your needs.
Scaling & Root Planing
A routine dental cleaning followed by an improved oral hygiene regimen can be all it takes to stop gum disease early on. For advanced cases, though, scaling and root planing is required. The scaling process involves using a special instrument to scrape away plaque and tartar that has built up underneath the gum line. Afterwards, root planing is performed to get rid of the rough surfaces that tend to invite bacteria. Planing also helps facilitate the healing process for the gums.
Antibiotic Treatment
As gum disease progresses, the bacteria causing the damage travel deeper into your tissues, where it finds plenty of places to hide. Even scaling and root planing may not remove all of the harmful bacteria in your mouth. Antibiotic therapy is crucial for continuing the battle against gum disease in the weeks following periodontal treatment. We’ll discuss your antibiotic therapy in more detail once we have a clear grasp of the state of your oral health.