Periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection that is caused by harmful bacteria often present in the mouth. Bacteria can build up around the teeth and gums when there are leftover food particles, often in areas that are hard to reach. The bacteria feed on these particles and release acids that irritate the gum tissue. Over time, you may experience bleeding gums, redness and sensitivity or even changes in the fit of your bite. Often the result of poor oral hygiene, gum disease is avoidable with routine dental care.
Dr. Paul Karpovich treats periodontal disease in his Timonium, MD dental office. He helps patients remove gum infections and fight often painful symptoms of periodontitis. Treating gum disease can help restore the health of teeth and gums.
Treating Gum Disease in Timonium
Dr. Karpovich may recommend one or more of these treatments for patients with gingivitis or periodontitis:
- Antibacterial Rinses: Patients in the early stages of gum disease benefit from antibacterial rinses. These rinses help stave off harmful bacteria and lessen gum swelling and irritation.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Used in tandem, scaling and root planing help remove an infection from between teeth and even underneath the gums. During treatment, our dental hygienists use dental tools to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the gums. They can reach underneath the gums to smooth the surface of the tooth roots. Scaling and root planing help reattach the gums to the teeth and prevent tooth loss. These treatments can also be repeated for a deeper clean.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease can begin as gingivitis, which is marked by irritated, red, swollen, and bleeding gums. When gingivitis becomes periodontitis, it can cause more serious issues such as:
- Gum recession
- Tooth sensitivity
- Bad breath
- Toothaches
- Pus between the teeth or gums
- Tooth loss
Please contact our office if you have noticed signs of gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis can quickly develop and may require more serious and costly procedures down the road. We want our patients to maintain their tooth and gum health so they can avoid further painful dental problems.
Call Our Timonium Dental Office Today
Combat gum disease with effective periodontal treatment in Timonium, Maryland. We also serve patients in Hunt Valley, Towson, and the surrounding areas. Schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Karpovich online or call our dental office for care today at (410) 221-3085.