4921 State St 26 E #100, Lafayette, IN 47905
Advanced Treatment for Gum Disease
At Highland Creek Family Dental, you can feel confident that you will receive high-quality, compassionate dental care. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Shane T. Cope, provides effective periodontal treatment to help protect your oral health.
Periodontal disease—also known as gum disease—is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and gum recession if left untreated. If your gums are red, swollen, tender, or bleed easily, you may be experiencing signs of gum disease. We encourage you to contact our dental office in Lafayette, Indiana, to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.
Call us today to learn more or to schedule your visit. We are committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile and long-term oral health.
What Are the Effects of Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a degenerative condition primarily caused by bacteria found in plaque. The bacteria inflame and infect the gum tissues, and when left untreated, the gums can eventually begin to pull away from the teeth. Untreated periodontal disease can result in bone loss, tooth loss, and gum tissue recession.
If your gums are swollen, red, tender, or bleed easily, you may have periodontal disease. Other common symptoms of gum disease include loose teeth, painful chewing, persistent bad breath, and receding gums that make your teeth appear longer than normal. Following an exam at our office, our dentists and team can determine whether you suffer from periodontal disease.
Gentle, Effective Periodontal Care
Periodontal treatment in Lafayette is based on your specific needs. Depending on the severity of the condition, our dentists may recommend additional professional dental cleanings, improved at-home oral hygiene, antibiotic treatment, scaling and root planing (deep cleanings), or gum surgery. We strive to help you restore your oral health and halt the progress of the disease. For more information on periodontal treatment, we welcome you to call or visit our office soon. We look forward to caring for your smile!
FAQs About Periodontal Treatment
Q. What causes gum disease?
A. Gum disease typically begins with plaque buildup around the teeth and along the gum line. When plaque is not removed through daily brushing, flossing, or professional cleanings, it hardens into tartar and irritates the gums, leading to infection.
Q. Is gum disease painful?
A. In its early stages, gum disease often causes little to no pain, which is why it can go unnoticed. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include tender or swollen gums, bleeding, persistent bad breath, or discomfort.
Q. What happens if gum disease is left untreated?
A. Without treatment, gum disease can worsen over time, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth. This may result in bone loss, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss.
Q. How is periodontal therapy different from a regular dental cleaning?
A. A routine dental cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gum line. Periodontal therapy targets areas below the gums, removing harmful bacteria and buildup to allow the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
Q. How long does periodontal treatment take?
A. Treatment length depends on the severity of the disease. Mild cases may require only one or two visits, while more advanced cases may need multiple appointments and ongoing maintenance care.
Q. Can gum disease return after treatment?
A. Yes, gum disease can return if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Brushing and flossing daily, along with regular dental checkups, are essential for keeping your gums healthy long-term.