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Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it may start with mild symptoms like gum irritation, if left untreated, it can lead to severe oral health issues, including tooth loss, and even impact your overall health. Luckily, treating periodontal disease is possible, especially when you work with trusted dental professionals. Here in Phoenix and Gilbert, Dr. Brian Harris and Dr. Scott Harris of Harris Dental are known for providing effective periodontal disease treatments to restore and maintain your oral health.
Am I at Risk for Gum Disease?
Many factors can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease. Understanding these risk factors can help you take preventive measures early.
Here are key contributors to gum disease risk:
- Poor oral hygiene: Improper brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, which hardens into tartar and irritates the gums.
- Smoking or tobacco use: Smoking weakens gum tissue and decreases blood flow, increasing the likelihood of gum infections.
- Genetics: A family history of periodontal disease may elevate your susceptibility.
- Poor nutrition: A diet lacking essential nutrients can weaken the immune system, making the gums more vulnerable to infections.
- Medical conditions: Diabetes and other systemic illnesses can reduce your body’s ability to fight infections.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal imbalances can leave gums more sensitive and prone to disease.
If any of these factors sound familiar, it’s critical to adopt preventive care practices and schedule regular dental checkups to stay ahead of gum disease.
Signs of Gum Disease
Identifying the signs of gum disease early can make all the difference in getting timely treatment and preventing progression. Be on the lookout for the following symptoms:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Formation of pockets between your teeth and gums
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait to seek professional help. Harris Dental in Phoenix and Gilbert specializes in early detection and advanced treatment for periodontal disease.
Proven Periodontal Disease Treatment
At Harris Dental, Dr. Brian Harris and Dr. Scott Harris use state-of-the-art techniques to treat periodontal disease effectively. Their approach focuses on stopping the progression of gum disease while restoring health to your gums and teeth.
Here’s an overview of the treatment process:
1. Thorough Diagnosis
Your treatment begins with an in-depth assessment of your gums. Using cutting-edge technology, our dentists identify areas of gum inflammation, infection, and pocket formation to recommend the best course of action.
2. Professional Cleaning
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is often the first line of defense. This process involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from both above and below the gumline, smoothing the root surfaces to promote healing.
3. Antibiotic Therapy
For advanced cases, localized antibiotic treatment may be applied to fight gum infections directly at the source.
4. Surgical Options
If needed, surgical procedures such as gum grafts or pocket reduction surgery may be recommended to address severe gum recession or deep periodontal pockets.
5. Maintenance Plan
Following the initial treatment, a personalized maintenance program is developed to help you prevent recurrence. This includes regular dental cleanings, home care recommendations, and monitoring your gum health.
The Dangers of Untreated Periodontal Disease
Ignoring gum disease can lead to serious consequences, not only for your oral health but for your overall well-being. Here’s what can happen if it goes untreated:
- Tooth Loss: Advanced gum disease destroys the bone and tissues that support your teeth, leading to tooth loss.
- Systemic Health Issues: Research has linked gum disease to systemic problems such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Chronic Discomfort: Inflamed gums can cause ongoing pain, making it difficult to eat, speak, or smile.
- Higher Costs: Treating advanced periodontal disease often requires more complex and expensive procedures than addressing it in its early stages.
To avoid these complications, it’s essential to seek prompt treatment if you suspect you have gum disease.
Choose Expert Periodontal Care at Harris Dental
At Harris Dental, our team is passionate about helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. With locations in Phoenix and Gilbert, Dr. Brian Harris and Dr. Scott Harris offer advanced periodontal treatments tailored to your specific needs. From early-stage intervention to advanced care, you can trust us to provide compassionate, expert services every step of the way.
Protect your smile and your health. Schedule a consultation with Harris Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier you.
Call us now or book your appointment online to experience expert periodontal care in Phoenix and Gilbert.
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