At Dr. Aric Kuehner’s dental practice, we believe that healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile. Our periodontal therapy services are designed to prevent, diagnose, and treat gum disease. As a general dental treatment, periodontal disease treatment in Clyde, OH can help you maintain good oral health for years.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection that affects the tissues holding your teeth in place. It starts when bacteria in plaque cause the gums to become inflamed. If not treated, the infection can damage the gums and jawbone, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Many people don’t realize they have gum disease because it often develops without pain. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Kuehner can help catch the early signs before they become serious.
Watch for these warning signs of gum disease:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Loose teeth
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
- Pus between teeth and gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, please contact our Clyde office right away for an evaluation.
Periodontal Treatments and Stages
Gum disease progresses through distinct stages. It begins with gingivitis, the mildest form characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. But gingivitis can often be reversed with proper dental care. If left untreated, it advances to periodontitis, where gums pull away from teeth, forming infected “pockets.” Over time, the infection breaks down bone and connective tissue, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Dr. Kuehner offers several effective treatments for gum disease at every stage. For early stage disease, a professional cleaning may be enough to restore gum health. Our skilled hygienists gently remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
For more advanced cases, scaling and root planing provides a deep-cleaning solution. Dr. Kuehner carefully removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and then smooths the roots of your teeth to help your gums reattach. Sometimes, we place antibiotics directly in the infected pockets between your teeth and gums to help fight infection and speed healing.
After treatment, regular follow-up visits ensure your gums remain healthy. Dr. Kuehner will create a personalized maintenance plan based on your specific needs.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease. Poor oral hygiene habits are a primary cause, as is smoking or tobacco use which significantly damages gum tissue. People with diabetes face higher risks due to reduced ability to fight infections. Certain medications that cause dry mouth can contribute to gum problems, while genetic factors may make some people more susceptible regardless of their oral care routine.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can affect gum health, and crooked teeth that are difficult to clean properly often harbor harmful bacteria. Chronic stress weakens your immune system’s ability to fight infection, and poor nutrition deprives your body of nutrients needed for gum health. Dr. Kuehner can help you understand your personal risk factors and develop strategies to protect your gums.
Benefits of Periodontal Therapy
Investing in periodontal therapy offers many important advantages for your health and wellbeing. First, it prevents tooth loss by stopping the destruction of supporting tissues. Many patients experience a significant reduction in bad breath as the bacterial infection is controlled. Your smile’s appearance often improves as inflammation decreases and gums return to a healthy pink color.
Tooth sensitivity commonly diminishes after treatment as exposed root surfaces are protected. For patients with diabetes, periodontal therapy can help manage blood sugar levels, as gum inflammation makes diabetes more difficult to control. Perhaps most importantly, treating gum disease may lower your risk of serious health conditions that research has linked to periodontal infection, including heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems.
Your Role in Maintaining Gum Health
Dr. Kuehner takes a gentle, thorough approach to periodontal therapy. We understand that dental treatments can cause anxiety for many patients, which is why we create a comfortable, relaxing environment where you can receive the care you need without stress.
Your daily habits play a role in maintaining healthy gums. Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Clean between your teeth every day with floss or interdental cleaners to remove plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria. Eat nutritious foods and limit sugary snacks that feed harmful bacteria. Avoid all tobacco products, as they significantly increase your risk of gum disease. Most importantly, keep your regular appointments with Dr. Kuehner for professional cleanings and check-ups.
Don’t wait until gum disease causes pain or tooth loss. Contact Dr. Aric Kuehner’s dental practice in Clyde, Ohio today to schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Together, we can develop a plan to keep your gums healthy and your smile bright for a lifetime. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and help you take the first step toward better gum health.