Gum Disease Treatment – Cary, NC

Overcome Gum Disease

When you brush, floss, and rinse your mouth, do you ever see pink in the sink, caused by bleeding gums? This is such a regular occurrence for some people that it is viewed as normal, when in reality it is often a sign of unhealthy gums. In fact, bleeding gums is one of the first symptoms of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. This infection is characterized by inflammation that affects the soft and hard tissues that support the teeth. While it is easily avoidable with proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental care, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that at least 50% of adults have some form of gum disease. Unfortunately, most people do not know that they have this condition until it has caused irreversible damage to their oral health. To quickly rehabilitate your gums, Dr. Darren Koch has the solutions you need with gum disease treatment in Cary.

Why Choose Darren G. Koch, DDS, PA for Gum Disease Treatment?

  • Arestin Antibiotic Therapy Available
  • Dentist That Respects Your Time
  • Precise, Personalized Dentistry

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a preventable infection that develops in the gum tissue caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar accumulations. When diagnosed at the earliest stage known as gingivitis, it can quickly be treated without causing any long-term damage to your oral health.

Unfortunately, many people fail to recognize the warning signs of the infection such as red, swollen and bleeding gums as well as persistent bad breath. As a result, gum disease may continue to progress and destroy the supporting structures of the teeth. Over time, this can lead to bone loss that causes loosening of teeth and eventual loss or need for removal.

The bacteria that cause gum disease can also enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body, causing damaging effects on systemic health. Scientific studies suggest a connection with diabetes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis with experts concluding that inflammation is the common link between these diseases.

Is Gum Disease Treatable?

Animated teeth with receded gums that need gum disease treatment in Cary

During the early stages, it can be treated using a deep cleaning with anesthetic, also known as scaling and root planing. This procedure uses special tools to remove tartar accumulations from below the gums to promote a healthy environment for healing and reattachment of the gums to the teeth.

For treatment of moderate to severe cases of gum disease, a concentrated, locally applied antibiotic called Arestin may be used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing. Arestin targets bacteria to reduce pockets between the teeth and gums so that gums can heal better than with a deep cleaning alone.

How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?

Man in dental chair smiling at dental team member

Identifying warning signs such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums is the key to early detection of gum disease. Bad breath can also occur due to the high bacteria levels in the mouth. If the infection progresses, you may notice gum recession, tooth sensitivity, or loose teeth. Treatment of this gum infection is vital to protecting your smile and general health from serious complications.