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Periodontics in Wexford, PA

The Importance of Protecting Your Gums

Your gums play an important role in supporting your oral health. They keep your teeth firmly attached to your jaw, maintain your smile’s alignment, and protect sensitive tooth roots. If you suffer from periodontal (gum) disease, your gums can break down and recede, leading to a multitude of oral health complications. That’s why dentists aren’t only concerned about your teeth — they also make sure your gums are healthy too!

At Paul B. Gabriel DMD, our expert team of dentists specialize in periodontics to care for your gums and protect them from infection. Dr. Gabriel is dedicated to keeping your smile healthy and beautiful through proper dental care, including gum tissue maintenance.

Read out guide below to learn more about effective gum disease treatment.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal (gum) disease is a bacterial infection that develops in your gums and can potentially spread throughout the rest of your mouth if not treated. The disease starts when bacteria accumulates around your teeth due to inconsistent oral hygiene. This causes a buildup of a white film known as plaque, which can eventually harden and turn into tartar, making it more difficult to remove without professional dental care.

There are several stages of gum disease that can develop depending on your case. You may have heard of gingivitis — the first stage. During this time, it’s possible to reverse the damage through a more consistent oral hygiene regimen. However, once the disease progresses, professional help is often required to save your smile.

Are You At Risk for Gum Disease?

While everyone can develop gum disease, there are certain factors that can put patients more at risk for infection. You may need to be on the lookout if you:

  • Have poor oral health habits
  • Smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco
  • Are going through hormonal changes
  • Are overweight or obese
  • Have diabetes
  • Have misaligned teeth

If you’re at a higher risk for developing periodontal issues, Dr. Gabriel will make sure you get the care you need here at our Wexford office. He can help create an at-home and in-office plan to keep your smile free of gum disease.

Non-Surgical Periodontal Solutions

Deep Cleanings

A professional deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-invasive treatment that removes any bacteria in your smile. The procedure consists of two parts. During scaling, your dentist will clean your teeth’s surfaces of any plaque and bacteria that has accumulated over time. Then, we’ll clean the roots of your teeth through planning. This involves smoothing out the surface of your roots to ensure bacteria is less likely to accumulate in pockets caused by infection and continue attacking. This two-step plan can stop the progression of gum disease and get your smile on the road to recovery.

Arestin

Arestin is a powerful antibiotic that is used during a scaling and root planing treatment to prevent bacteria from interfering with the recovery of your smile after your procedure. Dr. Gabriel will place the Arestin in your periodontal pockets to protect them from reinfection while also giving your teeth the chance to recover. This will improve your overall oral health and ensure that any traces of your gum disease have been completely removed.

Laser Therapy

Thanks to advancements made in dental technology, laser therapy can be used as an incredible alternative for treating gum disease. Lasers are much less painful and are more precise than certain traditional dental tools, lessening the need for general anesthesia during treatment. Scaling and root planing is better with laser therapy due to its ability to promote healing. You’ll be able to recover from your periodontal treatment quickly and are also less likely to experience complications such as reinfection.

Caring for Your Teeth After Gum Disease

Periodontal disease can take a toll on your gums and affect your smile’s appearance. Dr. Gabriel and our team can get to work on improving your aesthetic once your infection has been cleared out. If your gums receded while they were infected, they can only be fully restored with professional help. Dr. Gabriel can perform a soft tissue graft to give you a healthy gum line again — the result being a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease and periodontal issues is to practice a consistent oral health care routine. Dr. Gabriel recommends taking the following steps to ensure your smile is at optimal health:

  • Brushing Twice a Day: It’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for better results.
  • Flossing: Flossing daily can help remove food particles and bacteria that are stuck in-between your teeth. Avoid snapping the floss down onto your gum line.
  • Rinsing Your Mouth: Use warm water or a fluoride mouthwash to clean your teeth after meals, especially if you’ve had either sugary or acidic foods.
  • Biannual Checkups: Scheduling regular cleanings at our Wexford office is important so that your dentist can make sure both your teeth and gums are in good health.

Frequently Asked Questions

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