Chapel Hill Periodontal Therapy

There are three different stages of periodontal disease, and the first stage is known as “gingivitis”. During this stage, no permanent damage has been done to your teeth or gums. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen gums, and blood when you brush or floss. It is caused by bacteria buildup between your teeth and gums.
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Your first line of defense against gingivitis is maintaining proper oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing 2-3 times per day and flossing once per day. Routine dental appointments are also critical to avoid gingivitis because during these visits, Dr. Mistry will clean hard-to-reach areas of your teeth to ensure that all oral bacteria is removed.

At Brightside Family Dental, we offer a range of treatments depending on the severity of your periodontal disease. Minor cases can be treated with a procedure called “scaling and root planing” (this is also known as a deep cleaning). During this treatment, Dr. Mistry will use specialized dental tools to remove plaque and bacteria from under your gums. We also offer antibiotic treatments to treat gum disease, and more severe cases may require oral surgery.

The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. This stage of periodontal disease does not cause any permanent damage to your gums and teeth, unlike the more advanced stages. The signs and symptoms of gingivitis are usually relatively mild. If you notice any of the following, it is important to seek treatment before you disease progresses and causes permanent damage: 
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• Bleeding when brushing and flossing
• Inflammation and tenderness of the gums
• Dark or red gums
• Halitosis (persistent bad breath)
• The visible buildup of tartar between your teeth and gums

If left untreated, gum disease progresses into the second stage, which is known as periodontitis. During this stage of gum disease, your gums begin to pull away from your teeth, forming “pockets” that collect bacteria. This bacteria attacks your gum tissue and teeth, causing permanent and irreversible damage. Signs of periodontitis include:
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• Lengthening of the teeth due to gum recession
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• The formation of deep pockets between your teeth and gums
• A bad taste in the mouth

Advanced periodontitis is the last stage of gum disease, and by this time major damage has been done to your teeth and gums. During this stage, the supporting fibers and bone underneath your teeth have been almost completely destroyed, which can lead to the following symptoms:
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• A change in how your bite
• Loosening of your teeth or total tooth loss
• Pockets of pus forming between your teeth

No matter what stage of gum disease you may have, call us today to schedule a consultation and get the periodontal treatment you need!

This depends on which stage of gum disease you are suffering from. If you come in for treatment during the first stage of the disease, your condition can be treated and cured with a deep cleaning, antibiotics, and other forms of periodontal care. However, if you are suffering from periodontitis or advanced periodontitis, treatment may be able to halt the progression of your disease, but will not cure it. If you suspect that you have any form of gum disease, time is of the essence. Call our office today to get quality, judgement-free periodontal care.

Many studies show that gum disease is linked to heart problems and even dementia. This is likely due to oral bacteria entering your bloodstream through your gums and harming major organs. Since scientists have found links between gum disease and other major health issues, it is important to get treatment right away if you suspect that you are suffering from this condition.