Periodontal Disease
When was the last time you flossed? Have you recently noticed increased bleeding while brushing? Are your gums puffier or more sensitive than they have been in the past? While you might not think much of this, it may be an indication that you’re dealing with periodontal disease, and that it’s time to turn to our team at Fletcher Family Dental for support.
Whether you’re in the earliest stages of gum disease or it has progressed to more severe periodontitis, our team is here to help you make a lasting change in your gum health. From advanced cleanings to gum grafts and more, we’re here to help. If you want to protect your gums and teeth, don’t hesitate to contact our team today to schedule an appointment.
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Reach out to our team today to book an appointment.
What is Periodontal Disease?
The first step in treating your periodontal disease is knowing that you’re experiencing it. This disease, also sometimes referred to as gum disease, is the progressive inflammation of your gum tissue as a result of genetics, poor oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and more. In its earliest stages, most patients will notice a bit of bleeding while brushing and flossing.
However, as the disease progresses, you’ll go from noticing minor gum bleeding to more significant pocket formation and tissue pulling away from your teeth. While you might think you can tackle this problem on your own, it’s always best to reach out to our trusted dental team at Fletcher Family Dental for support.
If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms, it may be time to contact our office:
- Chronic bad breath or unpleasant tastes in your mouth
- Receding gums and large pockets along your teeth
- Shifting or loose teeth
- Pain when eating and drinking
- Red, swollen, puffy, and painful gum tissue
- Bleeding while brushing and flossing
As soon as these symptoms emerge, reach out to Fletcher Family Dental to schedule an appointment. Time is of the essence, and the sooner you reach out to our team, the sooner we can help you find a lasting solution and prevent long-term complications.
Breaking Down the Stages of Periodontitis
Whether our team can cure or treat your periodontal disease will depend on what stage you are in. The earliest stage of the disease, also known as gingivitis, can be cured. However, once it has progressed into the second stage of the disease, it can only be managed and isn’t curable. The stages of periodontitis are as follows:
- Stage 1, Gingivitis: During this stage, your gums will be red, puffy, and you may experience some bleeding while brushing and flossing.
- Stage 2, Mild Periodontitis: Your gums begin to pull away from your teeth, creating small pockets where plaque and bacteria will build up.
- Stage 3, Moderate Periodontitis: The ligaments, bones, and tissues that support your teeth begin to deteriorate, and you’re plagued by chronic bad breath.
- Stage 4, Advanced Periodontitis: Your bone loss becomes more substantial, and your teeth begin to become loose and fall out.
How We Treat Periodontal Disease
Our team at Fletcher Family Dental offers a comprehensive approach to managing and treating your periodontal disease, tailored to the specific stage and severity of your condition. Our primary goal is to halt the progression of the disease and restore your gum health. Some of our most common treatment options include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Often referred to as a “deep cleaning,” this non-surgical procedure involves meticulously removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent bacterial reattachment.
- Antibiotic Therapy: We may use localized or oral antibiotics to target and eliminate the infection-causing bacteria in the periodontal pockets.
- Advanced Procedures: For more advanced cases (Stage 3 or 4 periodontitis), we may recommend surgical interventions, such as pocket reduction surgery or gum grafting, to regenerate lost tissue and bone support.
Our team will continue to monitor your periodontal disease at your appointment, ensuring your home hygiene plan is adequately protecting your gums and making suggestions to help boost your gum health. With our support, you can trust that you’re taking adequate steps toward long-term oral health improvements.
Contact OUR TEAM TODAY
Reach out to our team today to book an appointment.
DENTAL Office IN FLETCHER, NC
Our conveniently located dental office in Fletcher offers a full range of preventative and restorative services designed with your comfort in mind. Contact our team today to schedule your visit and experience the personalized care of Fletcher Family Dental.
828-674-8199
5628 Asheville Hwy Suite D, Fletcher, NC 28732
| Monday | 7AM – 2PM |
| Tuesday | 7AM – 2PM |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 7AM – 2PM |
| Friday | 7AM – 2PM |
| Saturday & Sunday | Closed |