Gum Disease Therapy

Gum disease affects millions of Americans every year. Whether you’re struggling with the effects of gum disease or just beginning to show signs, we want to help. Our team at iSmile Family Dentistry in East Hartford, CT, can help you improve the health of your gums, hold the progression of the disease at bay, and even help it reverse course in certain cases. Call today or book an appointment online to start getting your gums the care they deserve!

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a bacterial infection that can affect any part of the oral cavity. It occurs when plaque, a sticky substance made up of bacteria and food particles, builds up on the teeth. If not removed regularly, plaque hardens into tartar. This creates an environment in which harmful bacteria cannot be flushed from the mouth. Instead, it multiplies and migrates into crevices of the gums, damaging tissue and bone around the teeth. The effects of gum disease include bad breath, loose teeth, tooth loss, swollen gums, and tooth sensitivity.

In extreme cases, the infection can spread to other organs such as the heart or kidneys. This can have serious consequences for a person’s overall health. When plaque irritates the gums and the body’s immune system responds by attacking bacteria. This causes swelling and redness in the mouth but can be reversed without medication.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is characterized by red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums. Other signs of gum disease may include soreness in your mouth, bad breath, or a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite. Over time, gum disease can result in the loss of teeth, damage to the bone structure of your mouth and jaw, and can even affect the health of your internal organs.

What is Scaling & Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, also known as gum disease therapy or deep cleaning, is a treatment we use to help combat the spread of gum disease and even potentially reverse the effects. During a scaling and root planing appointment, your dentist will use a dental scaler to clean out pockets of infected gum tissue, removing harmful bacteria that have colonized there. They will also smooth down the surface of the roots of your teeth, removing plaque and tartar and making it more difficult for bacteria to live there.

Gum Disease Referrals

For those suffering from severe cases of gum disease who require an especially high level of care, we may refer you to a trusted specialist for treatment.

Ready to Get Your Gum Health on Track?

Schedule an appointment today by calling or booking online!

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