Periodontal Treatment

Gum Disease Treatment in Arlington, TX

Periodontics focuses on the care of the gums and other areas surrounding the teeth. Healthy gums are an essential part of maintaining healthy teeth and overall oral health. At Greene & Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we are committed to providing quality dental care to patients throughout Arlington, TX. Our office offers periodontal care for you and your whole family.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, making it important to recognize what it is and how it can affect your oral health.

Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial film called plaque. Every day, plaque can build up on our teeth, especially in hard-to-reach spaces. When plaque remains on the teeth, it can begin to irritate the gum tissue. Gum disease generally develops in two main stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is often relatively minor and easily treated. Some common symptoms include:

• Swollen, puffy, or red gums
• Bleeding after brushing or flossing
• Chronic bad breath
• Receding gums
• Tender gums

Although gingivitis may be minor and reversible, it can lead to more severe gum disease if left untreated.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis shares many symptoms with gingivitis, including bleeding gums and soreness. However, it is a more advanced form of gum disease and can also cause:

• More severe gum recession
• Discolored gum tissue
• Pus or other visible signs of infection
• Loosening of teeth
• Loss of teeth

As gum irritation becomes more severe, the gums can recede significantly and the teeth can begin to loosen. Loose teeth allow plaque to descend further below the gum line, creating additional irritation and potentially leading to permanent tooth loss.

Periodontal Treatment

Prevention is often the most effective way to combat gum disease. We recommend getting a regular checkup at least twice a year.

During these visits, we can thoroughly clean plaque and tartar from your teeth. This can help reduce gum irritation and prevent the gums from continuing to recede.

If you are already experiencing gum disease, a professional cleaning is still an important part of treatment. No matter what other treatment you receive to restore your oral health, it is vital to remove the plaque-forming bacteria from below and around the gum line.

Deep Scaling

Sometimes gum recession and tooth loosening can create spaces where plaque bacteria can grow deep below the gum line. If these areas are not properly cleaned, the infection can contribute to further gum and bone damage and eventually tooth loss.

Our office can perform deep scaling to clean below the gums as well as above them, helping address the buildup contributing to gum disease.

Cosmetic Gum Contouring

Gum recession can not only be uncomfortable, but it can also affect the appearance of your smile.

Greene & Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers cosmetic gum contouring to help address the appearance of gum recession. Using quality techniques and technology, we can reshape the gum line to improve both comfort and the appearance of your smile.

Talk to Us About Gum Disease Treatment

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of gum disease, contact Greene & Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. No matter which stage of gum disease you may be experiencing, our team can help you understand your options and work toward healthier gums and teeth.