Understanding Periodontal Disease: From Diagnosis To Treatment

You were just diagnosed with periodontal disease: What does that mean? What happens next? At Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV, we aim to provide you with a clear understanding of what periodontal disease is, how it’s treated, and the consequences of leaving it untreated. Our goal is to support you through effective treatment options and work towards restoring your oral health.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. It starts with bacteria in plaque that cause the gums to become inflamed. Over time, this inflammation can lead to the gums pulling away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. If not treated promptly, periodontal disease can lead to the destruction of the tissue and bone that support your teeth.

How is Periodontal Disease Treated?

At Sala Family Dentistry, we approach the treatment of periodontal disease with a personalized plan based on the severity of your condition. Here are the treatment options we typically consider:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This is often the first step in treating periodontal disease. It involves cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets and smoothing the roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth.
• Medications: In some cases, antimicrobial medications may be used along with scaling and root planing to reduce the bacterial load.

Surgical Treatments

• Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): For more severe cases, surgery might be necessary to reduce the size of the periodontal pockets, making it easier to keep the area clean.
• Bone and Tissue Grafts: These procedures help regenerate any bone or gum tissue lost to periodontal disease.

The Consequences of Untreated Periodontal Disease

Ignoring periodontal disease can lead to serious health consequences, including:

• Increased Pocket Depth: As the disease progresses, the pockets between your teeth and gums can deepen, harboring more bacteria.
• Tooth Mobility and Loss: Ongoing infection and bone loss can lead to the loosening or loss of teeth.
• Systemic Health Issues: Periodontal disease has been linked to other health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease.

Get Expert Dental Care From Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV

If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, the next step is to start treatment as soon as possible. At Sala Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing you with comprehensive care and will guide you through your treatment options and next steps.

Don’t wait to address periodontal disease. Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Together, we can manage your condition and work towards restoring your oral health.