Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease in Westchase, Houston, TX

Periodontal disease is severe inflammation or infection of the gums, typically occasioned by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky material that’s a by-product of antibacterial activity in the mouth. Periodontal disease can affect anyone. However, the risk of periodontal disease increases with age, with individuals aged 65 and older facing a higher risk of developing this disease.

When left untreated, periodontal disease in Houston, TX, often leads to tooth loss and other long-term complications. If you suspect you have periodontal disease in Richmond Avenue, get in touch with AK Dentistry today for an evaluation. We provide a wide range of personalized periodontal therapies to address your unique needs.

Causes and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is usually a direct result of compromised oral hygiene. Inadequate brushing and flossing pave the way for plaque to accumulate in your mouth. Plaque is a sticky material that forms when bacteria break down sugars in the mouth. Plaque is the culprit behind gum infection and cavities.

Risk factors that increase your susceptibility to gum disease include your age, excessive smoking, genetics, a weakened immune system, poor nutrition, stress, and certain medications.

Common symptoms of periodontal disease in Houston include bad breath, loose teeth, difficulty or pain when chewing, receding gums, toothaches, swelling, and bleeding gums.

If you’re experiencing these signs, get in touch with AK Dentistry immediately. Timely periodontal treatment minimizes your risk of tooth loss and other long-term dental issues.

Periodontal Therapies

We evaluate each patient carefully and determine the treatment that’s best suited for their needs. For periodontal disease near you, scaling and root planing, or deep cleaning, is the preferred first line of treatment.

Scaling and root planing involves thoroughly cleaning the teeth and gum areas and then smoothing the tooth roots to encourage reattachment of the gums. For this process, our dental hygienist uses a dental scaler to get in those hard-to-reach areas. We may also use an antimicrobial mouth rinse or topical antibiotics to eliminate harmful microflora.

Depending on the severity of periodontal disease, several scaling and root planing sessions may be required before an individual can fully recover from gum disease. At times, scaling and root planing are used together with other personalized periodontal therapies.

Surgery is sometimes preferred as a last resort, especially for severe cases of periodontal disease. A dentist may perform periodontal surgery to rebuild receding gums or damaged tissue.

Gum disease can wreak havoc in your life, but only if you allow it. For personalized periodontal treatment, get in touch with AK Dentistry today.