About Periodontal Therapy
At Murphy Family Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry, our experienced dentists and hygienists, with their unique talents, give you the best care possible to keep your smile healthy and bright.
We provide professional cleanings and help you with home care and hygiene. We offer comprehensive periodontal therapy to our patients in Murphy, Wylie, Sachse, Richardson, Plano, and the surrounding areas.
What is periodontal disease?
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is a progressive bacterial infection caused by a destructive cocktail of harmful bacteria, lingering food particles, and plaque. Without treatment, toxins are released that eventually break down the gingival attachments between the teeth and gums. Teeth may become loose, and the supportive bone may deteriorate. Along with dental decay, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
We won’t know for sure until after your gums are examined at our office. Early-stage gum disease is notoriously asymptomatic. Your gums may feel and look fine. Yet, an underlying disease is present that requires treatment. Our doctors have the tools to detect gingival inflammation or gingivitis. By intervening with gingivitis promptly, we avoid the damage caused by later-stage gum disease or periodontitis. Even if changes to your mouth are associated with gingivitis, they can be easy to ignore early on. A few symptoms to watch range from “pink in the sink,” or bleeding when you brush and floss, to tender gums when you touch them.
What are some options to treat gum disease?
Earlier-stage gum disease can be treated effectively with conservative modifications to home care and professional services such as “deep cleaning.” Scaling and root planing (SRP) service thoroughly removes stubborn plaque build-up from around and below the gum line.
Antibiotic therapy with Arestin® often complements SRP. This bacteria-fighting medication is applied directly below the gums and remains active for a prolonged period. The antibiotic specifically targets harmful bacteria to reduce the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums during the disease process. Together, these nonsurgical interventions help boost positive results and encourage prompt healing.
How do you treat periodontitis?
If a patient’s periodontal disease is severe, surgical intervention may be required. For instance, our dentists may recommend reducing the gingival if the periodontal pockets are too deep. This will involve folding back the gum tissue, removing bacterial buildup, and securing it into a more proper position. Gum tissue grafts can cover exposed tooth roots and prevent painful sensitivity.
Click here for more info or call (972) 808-5023 to book your appointment. With prompt and proactive care, we keep your gums in great shape and prevent the need for periodontal therapies to treat damage.
