Do your gums bleed constantly? Do they cause you tooth pain, and other dental issues?
It is estimated that 75% of American adults have some form of gum disease. Gum disease is often referred to as the “silent disease” because most patients experience no pain or obvious symptoms until advanced stages of the disease.
Gum disease is not only a serious dental concern, but the condition has been strongly linked to other medical issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Healthy gums provide the foundation for healthy teeth. Dr. Freano considers the prevention of gum disease an important facet of preventive dental care in his Lexington, KY dental office.
He makes it a point to visually check for gum disease during every appointment. If signs are found, you will be recommended treatments, and given at-home steps to alleviate the symptoms.
Dr. Freano performs a periodontal screening to check for the signs and symptoms of gum disease during routine dental care visits. Early detection is the key to reducing damage to the teeth and gums from gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is a common oral health issue. It occurs when plaque buildup on your teeth is left unchecked. Plaque and bacteria eat away at your teeth and gums causing an infection at the area that holds your teeth in place. Bad oral habits contribute to the development of this preventable disease. Brushing and flossing regularly, visiting the dentist at least two times a year will certainly prevent periodontal disease.
Common signs of gum disease:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Changes in the fit of dentures
If you notice any of the above signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Freano to ensure effective treatment and reduce the risk of further damage or more complex dental problems.
Gum Disease Treatment with Periodontal Therapy in Lexington, KY
Dr. Freano provides periodontal therapy to treat the various stages of gum disease. He and his team will recommend appropriate treatment after a thorough exam and determination. Treatment will vary from individual to individual depending on the stage of gum disease present.
If you have early signs of gum disease, known as gingivitis, he may recommend more frequent dental cleanings to restore your gums to optimal health. If more intensive treatment is needed, Dr. Freano may recommend a deep teeth cleaning known as scaling and root planning.
During this procedure, the dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets of your gums. Modern dentistry allows us to provide pain-free periodontal therapy treatments upon request.
Patients who have advanced signs of gum disease may require more intense treatment or oral surgery. In these cases, Dr. Freano may help coordinate treatment with a local periodontist.
If you think you may have periodontal disease, or gum disease, but are not sure, visit our dentist in Lexington KY for diagnosis and treatment. Never assume a diagnosis without seeing a medical professional first. Call our dental care office at 859.554.1586 today.
Gum Disease FAQs
What if I don’t get my bleeding gums fixed?
Since bleeding gums is a sign of periodontal disease, you open up yourself to more risk of getting infections, oral cancer, and loosing teeth. Sometimes your gums bleed because you brush your teeth too hard, but it’s not always the case. Visit your dentist to find the exact cause of your bleeding gums.
Will gum disease go away on its own?
No. A disease will keep eating away at its host. Gum disease is no different. If you have constant infections and a place for harmful bacteria to thrive, your issue won’t go away on its own.
Is periodontal therapy covered by dental insurance?
Some dental insurance plans can cover part or all of your periodontal treatments. Since periodontal therapy is necessary to maintain oral health, it should not be an elective procedure. You must contact your specific insurance provider to make sure they will cover the costs. We are also more than happy to confirm on your behalf.
Does periodontal therapy hurt?
No. You can think of periodontal therapy like a dental massage for your gums and teeth. You should not feel pain during treatment. Your mouth will also be numbed so that you do not feel any discomfort.