Gum Disease Treatment: Protecting Your Oral Health

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that can range from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe forms (periodontitis) that can damage the soft tissues and bone supporting your teeth. At Brighton Dental Group, your dedicated dentist in Brighton, we offer comprehensive gum disease treatment to protect your oral health and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come. If you're in Brighton, Brighton East, Hampton, or the surrounding areas and are concerned about your gum health, we're here to provide expert care.

Understanding Gum Disease:

Gum disease is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque isn't removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a dental professional. These bacteria can irritate and infect your gums, leading to inflammation.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease:

Early stages of gum disease may be subtle, but as it progresses, you might notice:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing

• Persistent bad breath

• Receding gums (gums pulling away from the teeth)

• Loose teeth

• Changes in your bite

• Pus between your teeth and gums

It's crucial to seek treatment if you experience any of these symptoms. Early detection and intervention by your Brighton dentist can significantly improve the outcome and prevent more serious complications.

The Importance of Gum Disease Treatment:

Untreated gum disease can have serious consequences for your oral health, potentially leading to tooth loss. Furthermore, research suggests a link between gum disease and other systemic health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Therefore, protecting your gum health is essential for your overall well-being.

Gum Disease Treatment Options at Brighton Dental Group:

As a leading provider of comprehensive dental care in Brighton, we offer a range of treatments to address gum disease at various stages:

1. Professional Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): For gingivitis and early-stage periodontitis, a thorough professional cleaning is often the first step. This involves scaling (removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line) and root planing (smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach). This procedure, often performed under local anesthesia for comfort, helps to remove the bacteria and irritants that contribute to gum disease.

2. Medications: Depending on the severity of your gum disease, our dentist may recommend medications such as antimicrobial mouth rinses or topical antibiotics to help control infection.

3. Surgical Treatments: For more advanced periodontitis, surgical procedures may be necessary to restore gum tissue or bone that has been damaged. These procedures can include:

   • Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction): The gums are lifted back to remove tartar buildup and reduce the depth of periodontal pockets, making it easier to keep the area clean.

   • Bone Grafting: If bone supporting your teeth has been damaged, bone grafting can help to regenerate lost bone.

   • Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): This procedure uses a barrier membrane to prevent gum tissue from growing into areas where bone should regenerate.

   • Soft Tissue Grafts: These procedures can help to cover exposed tooth roots and reduce gum recession.

4. Maintenance Therapy: After active treatment, regular maintenance appointments are crucial to prevent gum disease from recurring. These appointments typically involve professional cleanings and monitoring of your gum health.

Protecting Your Oral Health in Brighton:

At Brighton Dental Group, conveniently located on New Street, our experienced dental team is committed to providing you with effective and compassionate gum disease treatment. We understand the importance of healthy gums for a healthy smile and overall well-being. If you're experiencing any signs of gum disease or are looking for a trusted local dentist to help you maintain optimal gum health, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule a consultation. We welcome new patients from Brighton, Brighton East, Hampton, and surrounding areas and are here to help you protect your smile for life. If you've been searching for a "dentist near me" who offers comprehensive gum disease treatment, look no further.