Understanding and treating gum disease in Centerville, Ohio

Many Centerville, Ohio patients wonder how, with daily brushing, they could be diagnosed with gum disease. However, gum disease, which occurs when bacteria causes an infection below the gum line, is quite common. Gum disease is diagnosed in several forms:

• Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease and can usually be treated with a combination of in-office professional cleaning and extra care at home to ensure the mouth stays free from plaque and bacteria.
• Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis goes untreated. It’s a more serious condition that causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets which then become infected. Once this occurs the only way to control it is with professional treatment.

Dr. Daniel Cobb and the team at Alex Bell Dental in Centerville, Ohio, offer several treatment options; however, the exact course of treatment is always designed specifically for your unique case. Treatment plans for individual cases of gum disease could include one or more of these procedures:

• Deep cleaning: By removing tartar from above and below the gum line through scaling and root planing, Dr. Cobb can eliminate bacteria.
• Medications: Mediated mouthwashes and prescription antibiotics can help eliminate the infection caused by gum disease.
• Surgery: If deep cleaning and medication do not eliminate the gum disease, surgery may be considered. Surgery options can include flap surgery and bone and tissue grafts. During flap surgery, the gums are lifted back to clean the tartar and then are sutured tightly back into place. Bone and tissue grafts are considered if the patient needs help re-growing lost bone and tissue.

If you have painful, swollen, or bleeding gums or think you have gum disease, call Dr. Daniel Cobb today. The health of your mouth, along with your overall wellbeing, depends on treating gum disease quickly and effectively.
 
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