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Aug
Can Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease) Be Treated?
To this day, gum disease remains a common yet serious dental issue that can result in premature tooth loss. If you forgo routine dental checkups, gum disease can go undetected for years until it becomes a major issue, causing severe symptoms. At the office of Richard D. Weigand, DDS, in Spokane, Washington, we can diagnose and treat gum disease in its early and advanced stages. Here are some questions we’re often asked about this condition.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a bacterial gum infection caused by plaque and tartar buildup along and under the gumline of your teeth. As the infection spreads, it can cause extensive damage to your gums and teeth.
What are the two basic types of gum disease?
The two types of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontal disease. Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease that causes very mild symptoms that most people miss. If detected early enough, gingivitis can be reversed, sparing you the pain of dealing with periodontal disease later on.
What causes gum disease?
Poor oral hygiene is the basic cause of gum disease. When you don’t floss or brush regularly, plaque and debris can gather around your gum line, causing bacteria to flourish. Diligent brushing and flossing habits can greatly reduce your risk of gum disease. Dr. Weigand recommends adding biannual dental checkups and cleanings to your oral hygiene routine to optimize your oral care.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Gingivitis symptoms are often very mild, making them easy to miss. You may experience mild gum swelling or slight bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth. As your condition worsens, your symptoms will become more severe. Some signs of periodontal disease are:
- Swollen, irritated, red gums.
- Chronic bad breath.
- Noticeable bleeding when you brush and floss.
- Receding gums.
- Painful chewing.
- Teeth shifting or coming loose.
- Tooth loss.
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How is gingivitis treated?
Gingivitis treatment generally consists of improving your oral hygiene routine and seeing your dentist regularly for routine cleanings to restore your gum health. Better brushing and flossing habits will keep plaque and bacteria to a minimum. Routine cleanings will help keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong to prevent infections.
How is periodontal disease treated?
Dr. Weigand offers various periodontal disease treatments, including scaling and root planing, aka deep cleaning. This treatment entails scraping your teeth at and below the gumline to eliminate all plaque and tartar buildup. Afterward, we’ll smooth and polish your root surfaces, making plaque difficult to accumulate again. We may first use antibiotics to kill the infection and thoroughly clean your teeth. Deep cleaning helps curtail the spread of the infection so your gums have a chance to heal. Gum surgery is also an option for treating extreme cases of periodontal disease.
Who offers safe and effective gum disease treatment near me?
Dr. Richard Weigand is the go-to dentist for gum disease treatment in the Spokane, WA, area. To schedule a consultation, call (509) 485-8620.
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Dr. Richard Weigand
Dr. Richard Weigand is a highly respected dentist with over 40 years of experience. He is recognized for his cosmetic and general dentistry expertise. A Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and the World Clinical Laser Institute (WCLI), Dr. Weigand has had advanced training from the Las Vegas Institute and Spear Center for advanced dental studies. Dr. Weigand has been voted “Best Dentist” and “Best Cosmetic Dentist” for many years in Spokane, Washington. He volunteers with the Give Back a Smile program which serves victims of domestic abuse. His commitment to innovation and patient care makes him a trusted expert.
Dr. Katie Griffith
Dr. Katie Griffith completed her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science at Union College and her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Nebraska. Experienced in family and pediatric dentistry, Dr. Griffith enjoys helping patients feel comfortable and confident in the dental care they receive. She is committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality dental care to patients of all ages. Her warm, friendly nature and attention to detail help her build lasting relationships with all her patients.