Gum Disease Treatment Munster
Protecting Your Smile’s Foundation
Cavities get a lot of attention, but did you know that gum disease is actually the most common dental issue in the United States and around the world? What starts as a minor infection can lead to loose and missing teeth while also dramatically increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and even dementia. Needless to say, we take it very seriously at Distinctive Dentistry & Orthodontics. If you notice red, puffy, or sensitive gums that bleed easily when brushing/flossing, reach out today.
Why Choose Distinctive Dentistry & Orthodontics for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Two Convenient Locations in Munster & Westville
- Able to See Dental Patients Quickly
- Large Team Means Fewer Referrals
Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease tends to occur in two stages. The earlier one you’re likely familiar with—gingivitis. Symptoms include inflammation, swelling, and frequent bleeding during hygiene (“pink in the sink”).
Without treatment, the infection can progress to periodontitis, where the bacteria start to break down the roots of the teeth as well as the supporting bone. This is when teeth may begin to shift, become loose, and eventually fall out.
Scaling & Root Planing
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, one of the first treatments we’ll recommend is a deep cleaning. First, we’ll get rid of the plaque buildup around and below the gum line (scaling), and then we’ll smooth out the rough surfaces of your teeth’s roots (root planing). This lowers the risk of buildup or infection in the future while also helping your gums heal and reform a strong bond with your teeth.
Antibiotic Treatment
Gum disease bacteria like to hide in the small, tough-to-reach spaces between your teeth and gums. While a deep cleaning can remove most of it, antibiotic treatment ensures that none is able to stick around and cause problems. This may take the form of a topical medication we apply directly to your gums, or we’ll give you a prescription mouthwash you’ll be instructed to use a few times a day at home for a few weeks.