Gum Disease in Atlanta, GA

Fight Gum Disease at Thomas W. Kauffman, DDS, PC

Fight Gum Disease at Thomas W. Kauffman, DDS, PC

Our experienced team of dental professionals in Atlanta is dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy gums and maintain optimal dental health. The best way to do that is through educating our patients on common dental ailments and their prevention. Gum disease is a common condition that can lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated.

From non-surgical treatments to periodontal surgery, our Atlanta dentist customizes our approach to each patient’s unique needs and goals. We’re committed to providing exceptional care and helping patients achieve a healthy, confident smile no matter what oral problems they may be facing.

If you’re suffering from gum disease, don’t hesitate to contact our dental team. To schedule an appointment, call our Atlanta dentist at (404) 524-1981.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, affects the gums and surrounding tissues of the teeth. It’s caused by bacterial buildup and plaque on the teeth, which can lead to inflammation, swelling, and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can cause damage to the teeth and gums, leading to loose teeth, tooth loss, and other health complications.

Periodontal disease progression is influenced by various risk factors, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications
• Systemic diseases like diabetes.

Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are crucial to detect and treat gum disease at its early stages.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease is typically divided into three stages:

1. Gingivitis
2. Periodontitis
3. Advanced Periodontitis

Each stage of periodontal disease requires different levels of treatment. It’s important to address the condition as early as possible to prevent further damage.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include redness, bleeding, and tenderness of the gums. Dr. Thomas Kauffman can treat gingivitis through dental cleanings and by encouraging patients to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the second stage of periodontal disease and occurs when inflammation and infection spread from the gums to the surrounding tissues and bone. Symptoms of periodontitis include receding gums, deep pockets between the teeth and gums, and bone loss. Treatment for periodontitis may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and surgery.

Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease and occurs when the infection has spread deep into the tissues and bone. Symptoms of advanced periodontitis include severe bone loss, tooth loss, and gum recession. Treatment for advanced periodontitis may include gum grafting, bone grafting, and tooth extraction.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

While it’s possible to have periodontal disease and not be aware due to poor oral hygiene, there are certain symptoms you may experience:

• Bleeding gums
• Red, tender, swollen gums
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth, also known as gum recession
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Separating or loose teeth
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Contact our Atlanta dentist for an appointment if you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease. By catching the disease early on, you’ll avoid the development of permanent complications, such as tooth loss. In the meantime, it’s best to brush your teeth regularly (at least twice a day according to the American Dental Association) to prevent issues like loose or sensitive teeth or periodontal gum disease.

Periodontal Disease Treatment Options

There are various periodontal disease treatment options available. Those may include:

• Professional Dental Cleanings: Professional dental cleanings are a simple and effective way to remove plaque buildup and bacteria from the teeth and gums. During professional teeth cleanings, a dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove buildup from the teeth and gums, leaving them clean and healthy.
• Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and bacteria from below the gum line. This procedure is typically used to treat periodontitis and can help prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.
• Laser Periodontal Therapy: Laser periodontal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment option for periodontal disease that utilizes laser technology to remove infected tissue and promote healing. This treatment can be an effective alternative to traditional gum surgery, with less pain, swelling, and downtime.
• Bone and Gum Grafting: Bone and gum grafting restores lost bone and gum tissue due to advanced gum disease or tooth loss. During the procedure, grafts of bone or tissue are taken from other areas of the mouth or a donor source and transplanted to the affected area to promote new tissue growth.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help kill the bacteria that cause gum disease and reduce inflammation and gum infection.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat advanced gum disease. Surgery options may include gum grafting, bone grafting, or tooth extraction.

Call our Atlanta dental practice today to learn more about treatment options and learn how you can prevent any form of gum disease.

Costs of Gum Disease Treatment

When it comes to treating gum disease, costs can range between $1,700 to $8,000, depending on the stage of the disease. The more severe the gum disease, the more expensive treatment is likely to become. A gum specialist will be able to recommend the best course of action and payment plan to prevent gum disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can gum disease be prevented?

Yes, gum disease can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing daily, using fluoride toothpaste, and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. This routine can also prevent tooth decay, sensitive teeth, and another form of gum disease called periodontitis.

How do I know if I have periodontal disease?

Symptoms of periodontal disease include redness, swelling, bleeding gums, and tenderness of the soft tissue. If you‘re experiencing any of these symptoms around your teeth, see your dentist for an evaluation.

Is periodontal disease contagious?

No, periodontal disease is not contagious. However, harmful bacteria that cause gum disease can be spread through saliva, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits to prevent the spread of bacteria and severe gum disease.

Can gum disease cause other health problems?

Yes, gum disease has been linked to other health problems, including coronary artery disease, stroke, and diabetes. Maintaining good oral hygiene and treating gum disease promptly can help reduce the risk of these other health conditions and complications. In serious cases, you may need a bone graft or flap surgery from a dentist or periodontist to treat diseased gum tissue.

Let Us Help You Fight Gum Disease in Atlanta, GA

If you’re experiencing symptoms or warning signs of gum disease or have concerns about your dental health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our Atlanta dentist. Our team of dental professionals is here to provide you with the care and support you need to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

To schedule an appointment, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!