Austin Periodontics

Treating Your Gum Conditions Effectively

At Bell Dental Studio in Austin and the surrounding Westlake area, are committed to keeping our patients free of periodontal disease, through education and preventative measures. For patients who suffer from periodontal disease, we offer customized treatments to restore your periodontal health.

The term “periodontal” refers to the tissue that surrounds your teeth—your gums. Your gums are an important part of your oral health that some patients tend to neglect. Without proper care, you may develop the periodontal (gum) disease, a common yet serious condition. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that nearly half of Americans over the age of 30 have some form of advanced gum disease.

If you are interested in our Austin periodontal services, contact our staff by contacting us online or calling (512) 399-1115 to get started today.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is the result of the bacteria found in dental plaque—a sticky, transparent biofilm—forming on the surface of your teeth. If plaque is not properly removed, you may develop an infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth.

Periodontal disease is broken down into two stages, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Gingivitis the beginning form of the disease that can surface as early as your teenage years. During this stage, your immune system will produce toxins to combat the bacteria. These toxins can irritate your gums and cause inflammation or damage. Gingivitis is easily treatable, reversible, and preventable. However, gingivitis is an inconspicuous disease. Many of the symptoms and warning signs may go unnoticed without regular check-ups.

If left untreated, you may develop periodontitis. During periodontitis, a serious infection will begin to destroy your soft tissue, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. The infection will create deep pockets in your gums that trap food debris and plaque. The damage caused by periodontitis can result in the loss of a tooth and have drastic consequences for your overall health.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Initial symptoms of periodontal disease are painless and often unobtrusive. As the disease progresses, you may notice more serious evidence.

Some symptoms to watch out for include:

Tender gums that bleed when brushed or flossed
Red, swollen, or purple gums
Receding gum line that elongates the appearance of your teeth
New spaces that have developed between your teeth
Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
Loose teeth that may change your bite
Pus in between your gums and teeth

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Causes and Risk factors of Periodontal Disease

We know that periodontal disease is caused by bacteria, but there are plenty of risk factors that can aggravate and contribute to the condition, including:

Patients who smoke are more likely to develop the disease – Smoking can create deeper periodontal pockets and render treatment of periodontitis ineffective.
Some patients are at risk simply because of genetics – Those with a family history of the oral disease should be diligent about their oral hygiene practices. Diabetic patients may also have a harder time fighting off the infection that causes periodontitis.
Prescription medications – can contribute to the development of periodontal disease. Antidepressants and blood pressure medications restrict the flow of saliva, which fosters the growth of plaque and tartar.

Effective Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease in Austin

Depending on the severity of your condition, Michael C. Bell, DDS, PC offers some treatments to eliminate or stifle the disease. Our first line of defense is usually a professional deep cleaning with the use of an ultrasonic scaler. This can eliminate the plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause infection. In severe cases, we may need to consider other options that involve surgery.

We also offer guided biofilm therapy to safely remove plaque, which is less invasive and gentler on your teeth and gums.

Regardless, the best form of treatment is preventative. Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Dr. Bell can teach you the proper techniques to implement in your daily routine.

Your Questions About Periodontal Treatment Answered

How long does periodontal treatment take?

The length of treatment depends on the severity of your gum disease. Scaling and root planing typically require one to two appointments, while more advanced procedures may take longer. We'll provide a detailed treatment plan outlining timelines during your consultation.

Can I prevent gum disease?

Absolutely! Practicing good oral hygiene at home is key. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. A balanced diet and managing chronic health conditions also contribute to gum health.

What happens if I leave gum disease untreated?

Untreated gum disease can lead to serious consequences, including tooth loss, jawbone deterioration, and complications with your overall health. Early intervention is crucial to prevent these issues.

Can I still eat normally after periodontal treatment?

Following your treatment, we'll provide you with specific dietary recommendations. Initially, you may need to stick to soft foods as your gums heal. However, you can gradually return to your regular diet as your tissues recover.

If you would like to learn more about Austin periodontics, call (512) 399-1115, and schedule an appointment today.