Treating Periodontal (Gum) Disease - Fort Smith, AR

Know Your Periodontal Therapy
Options Before You Visit

Dr. López and his team understand the stress that comes with treating periodontal (gum) disease, and they want to help you eliminate the symptoms that come with it for thealthy smiles

Periodontal disease destroys the gums and the supporting bones under the teeth, reaping havoc inside the mouth and causing serious health problems. Plaque forming inside the mouth is a big contributor to gum disease and consists of saliva, bacteria, and traces of food residue. When plaque clings to the inside of the mouth and stays there, it eventually turns into calculus or tartar and will start to tear away at the gums and underlying bones.

Periodontal disease is the number one reason for tooth loss, and studies show there to be a link between the disease and other diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, strokes, and bacterial pneumonia. Poor hygiene, smoking, and lack of dental check-ups all contribute to gum disease as well. The signs and symptoms that come with periodontal disease are red, swollen, or bleeding gums, loosened teeth, recent spacing between the teeth, constant bad breath, pus coming from the teeth or gums, reduction of gum around the teeth, and tenderness or discomfort caused by the high amounts of plaque, calculus, and bacteria build-up.

For patients with gum disease, New Smile Dental: Gilberto Lopez, DDS offers a quick examination to determine the severity of the gum disease based on whether the patient has gingivitis, periodontitis, or advanced periodontitis. Treatment for periodontal disease will vary for each patient. Those at the earlier stages will undergo a few sessions of cleaning, while those in the more severe stages will undergo a procedure where the mouth is numbed while a hygienist uses scaling and root planing to remove the tartar, bacteria and plaque. Afterwards, there may be additional cleanings to ensure maximum effectiveness. With Dr. López and his highly trained team, it's possible to recover from gum disease and regain your smile.

Learn About Maintenance of Periodontal Disease