Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, can be reversed and eliminated. But if it’s left untreated, it will cause permanent damage to your mouth, and it will not be possible to completely reverse this damage. This is why early treatment is so important!
Scaling & root planing (deep cleaning) is the first line of defense against gum disease. To determine if it’s right for you, Dr. Poblenz will need to examine your mouth and check for signs of gum disease.
It takes two appointments to get a deep cleaning, since half of your mouth is cleaned at each consultation. Dr. Poblenz will numb your mouth, then clean deeply between the gums and teeth to eliminate the plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause gum disease. The process usually takes about two hours.
To ensure the best outcome, Dr. Poblenz will usually prescribe antibiotics that you’ll take after deep cleanings. You’ll also need to maintain good at-home oral hygiene.
Depending on your case, you may need to come back every 3-4 months for periodontal maintenance. This is basically a “mini” deep cleaning.
If you suspect that you have gum disease, you need periodontal care in Jacksonville. The most common signs of early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) include gum discoloration and swelling, gum tenderness, halitosis (bad breath) and bleeding easily when brushing or flossing.
If you have a more severe case of gum disease, you may also experience symptoms like gum recession which makes your teeth look longer, severe tenderness and sensitivity when you bite and chew, and even a change in how your teeth fit together.
The sooner you get periodontal care to treat your gum disease, the better. Even if it’s not possible to completely eliminate your gum disease, proper care from a dentist will prevent further damage to your teeth and gums, and may allow you to avoid the need for surgical treatment.
So if you recognize the above signs and symptoms and suspect you may have gum disease, don’t wait. Contact JAX Dental Studios right away to get the treatment you need for gingivitis and gum disease in Jacksonville.
This depends on your case, the extent of your gum disease, and when you seek care from a dentist. In some cases, a deep cleaning alone may not be enough to restore your gums. You may require additional treatments like gum flap surgery to clean below your teeth, or gum grafting to restore the health of your gums. Dr. Poblenz can discuss these surgeries in more detail with you at your appointment at JAX Dental Studio.