Do your gums bleed when you brush and floss? Are your gums sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks? You may have early signs of periodontitis, also known as gum disease. Gum disease occurs when harmful bacteria build up in the mouth, creating a sticky film called plaque. As plaque hardens, it becomes tartar or calculus. This bacterial build-up irritates the gum tissue and can lead to gum recession and tooth loss over time.
Dr. Walter Mazzella treats gum disease in Woodstock, MD, and helps remove harmful bacteria to reverse symptoms of gum disease. Periodontal therapy and dental lasers offer general dental treatment to prevent future gum health problems. In addition, Dr. Mazzella offers restorative dentistry services to patients in Woodstock, MD, and the surrounding areas.
Common Symptoms of Gum Disease
Early on, patients with gum inflammation can also experience:
- Tender gums
- Gum sensitivity
- Bleeding gums
- Red and purple-colored gum tissue
Patients with gum disease often experience these symptoms:
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Receding gum tissue
- Pus between the gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
Contact our office if you have any of these symptoms, and we will help you find the right treatment. Sometimes, patients can prevent gingivitis from turning into periodontitis by flossing, brushing, and visiting the dentist regularly. Other patients may require deep cleaning treatments or laser dentistry to remove the infection.
Gum Disease Treatment in Woodstock, MD
Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the earliest stage of gum disease. Patients with gingivitis can reverse their symptoms with good oral hygiene and preventative care. As gingivitis progresses into gum disease, patients will need more professional care. Our dental office provides comprehensive gum treatments for patients with gingivitis and periodontitis:
Deep Cleanings
Scaling and root planing treatment are used in tandem to remove plaque and tartar from the gums and tooth roots. During scaling treatment, our hygienists remove bacterial buildup from the gums. They even go beneath the tissue to clean the gums. Root planing cleans plaque and tartar from the tooth roots, which helps keep teeth strong and prevent tooth loss.
Laser Dentistry
We can use a soft tissue laser to perform gingivectomies. A gingivectomy benefits patients who already have deep gum pockets as a result of gum disease. Comfortable dental lasers can remove infected tissue and treat gum pockets to renew the look and health of the gums.
Improve Your Gum Health
Are you noticing new gum problems? Call Dr. Mazzella today at (410) 559-9951 or schedule your next dental visit online. Let us know if you have any current gum health concerns or questions about treatment. We’re here to help you.