When is Gum Disease Treatment Needed?

Periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in seniors, yet many people are still unaware of its dangers. At Dr. Edward Liu Sedation and Implant Dentistry, we offer gum disease treatment to our patients in and near Holt, Michigan. Through these FAQs, Dr. Edward Liu explains more about the causes and symptoms of gum disease and your options for treatment.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is a serious infection of your gum tissues caused by plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line of your teeth. Plaque that isn’t removed from your teeth will continue to spread, forming bacterial pockets around the gumline of your teeth. These pockets cause your gums to detach from your teeth, so your teeth become loose. Left untreated, the infection eventually destroys your bone structure, causing your teeth to fall out.

Are there different stages of periodontal disease?

Yes. Early gum disease, called gingivitis, can cause mild symptoms like red, swollen gums and slight bleeding when brushing your teeth. These symptoms can often be reversed by improving your oral hygiene routine. If you ignore these symptoms, your condition can advance to the next level of periodontitis or periodontal disease. Without treatment, periodontal disease can lead to permanent tooth loss.

What are the signs of periodontal disease?

The following are some common symptoms of periodontal disease:

Inflamed gums that bleed easily
Gum tenderness and pain
Painful chewing
Receding gums
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth that shift their position
Tooth loss

Dr. Liu can detect signs of gum disease during a routine check-up, allowing you to take treatment measures. That’s why it’s important to see your dentist regularly for routine care.

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New Patients: (517) 777-8878 | Existing Patients: (517) 699-2985
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When is gum disease treatment needed?

Routine dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup at and above the gumline of your teeth to prevent decay and gum disease. If you forgo regular cleanings, plaque and tartar can start accumulating below the gumline of your teeth, putting your bone health at risk. Dr. Liu may recommend dental scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) treatment at this stage. Deep cleaning cleanses your teeth and their roots of bacterial infection below the gumline of your teeth to prevent tooth loss.

What are my options for treating gum disease?

Depending on the severity of your condition, Dr. Liu may recommend:

Deep cleaning to cleanse your mouth of bacterial infection below the gum line to save your teeth.
Antibiotics to reduce pockets of bacteria that have developed around your gums so they have a chance to heal.
Periodontal therapy is used to manage gum disease symptoms in the long term.
Gum flap surgery to raise your gum tissue so we can treat the infection underneath.
Gum grafts to regenerate gum tissue damaged by gum disease.

Where can I go for gum disease treatment near me?

If you suspect you have gum disease, we encourage you to contact Dr. Edward Liu from Dr. Edward Liu Sedation and Implant Dentistry in Holt, Michigan, at (517) 777-8878 for treatment.

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Dr. Edward Liu

Edward Liu, D.D.S., is a highly accomplished general and cosmetic dentist with over two decades of experience. A graduate of the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry, he earned his doctorate in 2000. Dr. Liu is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry and one of only 407 dentists in the U.S. and Canada to hold this title. He also achieved Mastership from the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor held by only 1% of dentists. His expertise in dental implants and sedation dentistry, combined with 1600 hours of continuing education, ensures exceptional patient care.