Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the gums and tissues that support your teeth. It’s caused by bacteria that accumulate around the gum line due to poor oral hygiene habits. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.

The symptoms of periodontitis include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, receding gums, sensitive teeth, and tooth pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see our dentist in Alton, Donna, & McAllen, TX for treatment immediately. 

At Toothday Family Dentistry, treatment for periodontal disease typically involves scaling and root planing, deep-cleaning procedures to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Our dentist may also prescribe antibiotics or other medications to help control the infection. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage caused by the disease.

The Causes of Periodontal Disease

Poor Oral Hygiene

The most significant contributor to periodontal disease is inadequate oral hygiene. When you don't brush and floss regularly, plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on your teeth and gums. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by professional dental cleaning. Plaque and tartar are the primary culprits behind gum inflammation and infection, leading to periodontal disease.

Smoking and Tobacco Use

Tobacco products, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco, harm oral health and significantly increase the risk of developing periodontal disease. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, impairs the body's ability to fight infection, and interferes with healing. Smokers are more likely to experience severe gum disease and have difficulty responding to treatment.

Poor Nutrition

A diet lacking essential nutrients, especially vitamin C, can weaken the body's immune system and make it more susceptible to gum infections. Additionally, excessive consumption of sugary or acidic foods and beverages can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease by providing an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.

Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease

Scaling and Root Planing

This non-surgical procedure in Alton, Donna, and McAllen, TX, involves thorough cleaning of the teeth and roots to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. It helps reduce inflammation and promote gum attachment to the tooth.

Antibiotic Treatments

To combat the infection, our dentist could prescribe antibiotics in the form of oral medications or topical gels placed directly into the pockets between the teeth and gums.

Lifestyle Modifications

Improving oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash, is essential for managing gum disease. Stopping smoking is also critical, as smoking can worsen the condition.

Surgical Procedures

In advanced cases, surgical interventions may be necessary, such as flap surgery to lift the gum tissue for deeper cleaning or bone grafts to restore lost bone tissue.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for preventing the progression of gum disease and its potential consequences, such as tooth loss. If you suspect you have gum disease, visit Toothday Family Dentistry at Alton, Donna, and McAllen, or call us.