Periodontal Disease Treatment (Gum Disease)
Periodontal disease treatment helps stop gum infection, reduce bleeding and bad breath, and protect the bone that supports your teeth. With healthier gums, you’re less likely to face tooth loss and may support overall health. Early care is comfortable, effective, and keeps your smile strong.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Charlotte, NC
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It often begins with redness, swelling, or bleeding gums and can progress to more serious damage if left untreated. Treatment may include professional deep cleanings, improved at-home oral care, and, in advanced cases, periodontal therapy or surgery.
Untreated periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Early treatment is essential to protect your smile, maintain overall health, and prevent long-term complications.
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What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Gum disease often starts quietly, but your mouth may give early warning signs. Common symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, and persistent bad breath. You might notice gums pulling away from teeth, increased sensitivity, or teeth that look longer than before. As it progresses, gum disease can cause pain when chewing, pus around the gumline, and loose or shifting teeth. If you’re seeing any of these changes, schedule a dental exam soon—early treatment can help protect your smile.
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How is periodontal disease disease treated?
Gum disease often begins quietly, with symptoms such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; gum recession; or loose teeth. Left untreated, it can damage the bone supporting your smile. Treatment depends on severity. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning that removes plaque and bacteria below the gumline, helping gums heal and reattach. In advanced cases, bone grafting may be recommended to rebuild lost bone, stabilize teeth, and support long-term oral health. Early evaluation and consistent home care improve comfort, confidence, and treatment outcomes for patients everywhere.
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What causes gum disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, begins when plaque builds up along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms daily from food and saliva. If not removed with proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings, plaque hardens into tartar and irritates the gums. This irritation can cause inflammation, bleeding, and infection. Risk factors like smoking, genetics, certain medications, hormonal changes, and chronic conditions such as diabetes can increase susceptibility and accelerate the progression of gum disease. Early awareness and prevention help protect oral health long term.
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What is gum recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth gradually pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can lead to sensitivity, a higher risk of cavities, and changes in your smile. Common causes include aggressive brushing, gum disease, genetics, and teeth grinding. Treatment depends on the severity and may include deep cleanings, improved oral hygiene, protective night guards, or gum grafting. Early diagnosis is key, so regular dental visits help protect your gums and maintain long-term oral health for patients of all ages and lifestyles.
Are You Experiencing Gum Disease Symptoms?
If you think you may be suffering from gum disease, or have more questions about treatment, reach out to our compassionate team today!
