Certain signs and symptoms may indicate the presence of the disease. Gum disease causes the symptoms listed below so if you have one or more, schedule an appointment and visit us now in Katy.

• • • Gums that bleed while brushing and after brushing
    • Gums that are swollen, irritated, infected, red, or discolored
    • Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth that persists
    • Deep pockets form between the teeth and the gums
    • A buildup of plaque or tartar on your teeth
    • Teeth that are loose, missing, or shifting

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a common infection that affects the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. It is brought on by bacteria that have accumulated on your teeth and gums. Without treatment, your bones and teeth may be damaged as periodontitis progresses.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 47% of the people aging 30s and older have periodontal disease, but it is even more common with people aging 65 and older at around 70%.

Periodontal Treatments

Tooth Scaling

Scaling removes all tartar and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth as well as above and below your gum line. We do this treatment with the help of instruments, a laser, or an ultrasonic device. The process involves smoothing out the roots of your teeth to aid in the reattachment of your gums to your teeth.

Root Planing

Root planing removes bacteria in the gum line that contribute to inflammation and delays healing or reattachment of the gum to the tooth surfaces. We clean deep beneath the gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup on the roots of teeth where the infection has affected the bones.

Surgical Periodontal Treatment

If non-surgical treatments and good oral hygiene are not working, gum disease can be treated surgically.

Pocket Reduction

Flap surgery is also known as pocket reduction surgery. We will fold back the gum tissue and remove the disease-causing bacteria and the tartar before securing the tissue into place. To avoid the damage caused by periodontal disease progression and to help you maintain a healthy smile, it is critical to reduce pocket depth and eliminate existing bacteria.

Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is a type of dental surgery that is used to cover roots or develop gum tissue where the gingival recession has caused the gums to recede. We use gum tissue from your palate or another donor source to cover the exposed root during gum graft surgery. To even your gum line and reduce sensitivity, this can be done for one tooth or several teeth.

Even if the teeth and gums are healthy, good oral hygiene should be practiced daily to avoid infection. If you ever need assistance or you have questions about gum disease, send us a message or visit us in Katy, TX to discuss the right periodontal treatment for you.