Gum Disease Dallas TX | Periodontal Disease

Gum Disease An Overview

Dr. D. Bradley Dean is an expert in the prevention, treatment, and management of gum disease in the Dallas, TX and Plano, TX area. As a board certified Periodontist, he has extensive education and experience with periodontal treatment. Dr. Dean only utilizes the most state of the art techniques and equipment to treat gum disease.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis: If you do not brush or floss your teeth adequately or often, then plaque will build up on your teeth. This build up on the gum line will cause inflammation of the gums. This is typically indicative of the first stage of gum disease, gingivitis.

Periodontitis: At this stage the infection is so bad, the bone structure that supports your teeth and the soft tissue are damaged. Without prompt treatment, you risk permanent damage such as tooth and bone loss.

Advanced Periodontitis: By now the fibers, tissue, and bone supporting the teeth are destroyed. Your teeth will begin to loosen and shift. You will need to be treated immediately or your teeth may have to be removed.

Most people with advanced periodontitis will lose their teeth. Dr. Dean will discuss your treatment options and the best was to replace your missing teeth.

Gum Disease What to Expect

Dr. Dean will do a complete periodontal examination, including the necessary dental X-rays to get a better look at your current oral health. This will help him determine the necessary treatment you will need.

Dr. Dean can provide gum grafting, osseous surgery (gum pocket surgery), and periodontal bone grafting as surgical gum disease treatments.

Scaling and root planing: An intensive cleaning where Dr. Dean will clean all surfaces of your teeth very thoroughly. This procedure will attempt to remove all traces of plaque and tartar from the gum pockets.
Osseous surgery (gum pocket surgery): Osseous surgery is a pocket reduction surgery. Here, Dr. Dean will make a small cut in your gum tissue to access and remove the bacteria and repair any damage.
Gum grafting: Gum disease often results in gum recession. The gum grafting procedure will use new gum tissues to cover the exposed tooth root and prevent further recession.
Periodontal bone grafting: Advanced stages of gum disease can cause bone loss in the jaw. A bone graft will help build back up the bone. This is a common procedure used to create enough bone to support dental implants.

Gum Disease FAQs

What are the signs of gum disease?: The common signs of gum disease are bleeding gums when you brush or floss, bad breath, red or sore gums, sores and puss on your gums, and receding gums. If you think you might suffer from gum disease, you should schedule an appointment with Dr. Dean.
How can I prevent gum diease?: Having good oral hygiene habits will help you avoid periodontal disease. Taking care of your teeth and gums at home includes brushing after every meal and before bedtime, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist twice a year.
Who should treat my gum disease?: While your general dentist knows your dental history and is in charge of your over all dental health, a periodontist should diagnose and treat your gum disease. We will work closely with you general dentist to assure you are getting the best treatments. When it comes to gum disease, a team approach is best for long term oral health.
Can I get rid of gingivitis on my own?: Yes. If you notice signs of gingivitis, like red, swollen, or bleeding gums, don’t ignore them. You can reverse gingivitis by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings is also important. You should contact your dentist if your symptoms don’t improve after a few weeks.
Will I lose my teeth if I have periodontitis?: If periodontitis is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. However, it’s not a guarantee you’ll lose your teeth if you have periodontitis. Early detection and proper treatment can halt the progression of the disease and save your teeth. It’s important to visit your dentist at least once a year to catch and manage such issues.
Can flossing reverse gum disease?: Flossing is an important part of reversing gingivitis. Flossing helps to prevent the buildup of tartar, which can lead to gum disease. However, if gum disease has progressed to a more advanced stage (periodontitis), professional dental treatment is necessary. Even in these cases, regular flossing is still an important part of your treatment plan and can help prevent further disease progression.

Gum Disease Dallas, TX

Gum Disease An Overview

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum Disease What to Expect

Gum Disease FAQs

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