Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a serious issue that not only affects the mouth but the entire body. While gum disease takes on several forms, gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease and is also the mildest. Symptoms of gingivitis include red or swollen gums that bleed easily. These initial symptoms of gum disease can often be treated through deep cleanings at Washington Center for Dentistry, along with a more rigorous at-home routine. The dentists are also equipped to treat periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease.
Left untreated, periodontitis can result in tooth loss, as well as necrosis of bone in the jaw. This form of gum disease has also been shown to be a risk factor for heart disease, hypertension, respiratory problems, dementia, and complications with both pregnancy and diabetes.
Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease. It is also the most mild. Symptoms of gingivitis include red or swollen gums that bleed easily. These initial symptoms of gum disease can often be treated through deep cleanings at our Washington DC dental office along with a more rigorous at-home routine. When left untreated, gingivitis can quickly advance to periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease that may produce symptoms such as:
Left untreated, periodontitis can result in tooth loss as well as necrosis of bone in the jaw. This form of gum disease has also been shown to be a risk factor for heart disease, hypertension, respiratory problems, dementia, and complications with both pregnancy and diabetes. Treating periodontitis may require advanced dentistry services. Our general dentists will assess your periodontal issues and provide the treatments best suited to restore optimal oral health.
Plaque and build-up of bacteria around the gum line lead to the earliest stage of gum disease known as Gingivitis.
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Want to protect your gums from bacteria? It’s easy. Dedicated home care and regular visits to the dentist are the best protection to keep you healthy. Gum disease isn’t pretty and you don’t have to tolerate it. Our talented and experienced dentists at Washington Center for Dentistry have all of the tools to recognize, treat and prevent gum disease. Timely, early treatment creates the best chance for keeping your teeth for a lifetime! Whether you suspect that you have gum disease or if you have already been diagnosed, you should call us today to set-up an appointment.
Prior to your periodontal treatment, we’ll review your medical history, so it’s important to have a list of any medications you are taking handy. If we haven’t already done so, you may also want to speak with your insurance company so you know what to expect as far as your out-of-pocket costs. If you have any concerns about your treatment, please bring this up with our team so we can help ease your mind.
Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional dental cleanings, improved oral hygiene practices, and regular check-ups. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontal disease, it cannot be completely cured. Don’t let that discourage you, however, as you can prevent periodontal disease from worsening and effectively manage it through proper treatment from the Washington Center for Dentistry.
If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. The infection and inflammation caused by the disease can destroy the supportive structures around the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and jawbone. This is why visiting our office for periodontal disease treatment is important. The Washington Center for Dentistry offers a range of periodontal treatments to address gum disease and help preserve your natural teeth, including antibiotics, scaling and root planing, and more.
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