How Periodontics Helps Prevent Tooth Loss and Inflammation

Almost half of American adults have periodontal (gum) disease, putting them at risk for inflammation, infection, and tooth loss. 

In her self-named dental practice in Houston, Texas, Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, provides comprehensive dental care in a warm, boutique-style setting. Gum disease is one of the most common problems Dr. Wilmore treats, and our entire team of periodontics experts are well-armed for the battle. 

In this month's blog, we discuss how periodontics care can help you rewrite the story on gum disease and protect your wellness as we head into the new year.

How gum disease happens

Gum disease begins when plaque collects on your teeth, which happens throughout the day as you eat and drink. If you don't brush and floss to remove plaque consistently, it hardens into tartar. Because tartar is rock-hard, you can't remove it on your own. 

Tartar traps even more bacteria against the gums. Your immune system reacts to the bacteria, creating inflammation that can trigger some frustrating symptoms.

The effects of gum disease

In the first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, your gums may look puffy and bleed easily, particularly when brushing or flossing. Bad breath is another common problem with gingivitis.

The inflammation can quickly worsen. At that point, the gum tissue may start pulling away from your teeth, creating deeper pockets for the bacteria to settle into. This deep-pocket inflammation triggers an endless cycle of irritation and infection. 

In this advanced stage of gum disease, called periodontitis, the infection severely weakens the gum tissue holding your teeth in place, leading to loosening teeth. Periodontitis can eventually weaken the jawbone, so in the late stages, many people start losing their teeth.

However, Dr. Wilmore and our team focus on saving your natural teeth whenever possible. We can help you do this in a variety of ways, but the most important rule to remember with periodontics treatment is "the sooner, the better!"

How periodontics can help

Periodontics can stop gum disease from progressing and stimulate gum healing. Dr. Wilmore customizes your treatment to your type of gum disease and the current condition of your gums and teeth. She may recommend:

Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing cleans areas that daily brushing and flossing can't reach. It involves removing plaque and tartar both above and below the gumline and smoothing the tooth root surfaces to help the gums reattach. Smooth roots also limit bacterial buildup and help your gums stay healthier over time.

Antibiotic therapy

When your gum pockets hold deeper infections, Dr. Wilmore often recommends localized antibiotic therapy. This typically involves directly placing gel, powder, tiny microspheres, chips, or threads containing powerful antibiotics under your gums.

These antibiotics dissolve slowly and release bacteria-fighting ingredients precisely where you need them. The localized approach can also reduce the need for oral antibiotics. Dr. Wilmore often administers local antibiotics after scaling and root planing.

Gum flap surgery

If gum recession weakens your tooth support, Dr. Wilmore may recommend flap surgery to restore your gumline and prevent tooth loss.

In this surgery, she takes a small piece of donor tissue from another area of your mouth — often the roof of your mouth — and places it over the recessed area. The new tissue protects your roots and creates a stronger seal around each tooth to dramatically reduce the risk of future tooth loss.

If you notice bleeding gums, tenderness, or signs of infection, don't wait to start periodontics care with Houston's top-rated dentist. Call 713-266-4222 to schedule your checkup.