Dentists in Centerville, OH discuss the types of treatments available for periodontal disease

At Alex Bell Dental, we want our patients to have healthy smiles for life. With proper preventive care and routine visits, patients can avoid conditions such as tooth decay and periodontal disease. Dr. Daniel Cobb in Centerville, OH can assist with general dentistry, and they offer treatments for many conditions. If you are interested in visiting dentists who have your best interests at heart and offer the services to help your smile, we welcome you to our practice!

Understanding preventative care

Many patients are aware that they need to combine home oral hygiene with routine visits to their dentists for evaluations to maintain a healthy smile. This includes brushing and flossing after every meal and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for an evaluation. However, when this doesn’t happen, it can mean unhealthy habits can damage the smile, including causing periodontal disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, or “gum disease,” is a condition usually caused by poor oral hygiene habits. If the teeth are not properly cleaned on a regular basis, it causes the formation of bacteria. Bacteria causes an infection, which can leave the gums red, swollen, and irritated. They may bleed when patients brush or floss. If left untreated, the condition can become more of a problem, causing pockets to form between the teeth and gums where more bacteria can grow and further the infection. Gums and bone can shrink, and patients may experience loose teeth. This is a serious problem that can cause irreversible damage to the smile, so it is best for patients to catch this before it becomes an issue – or catch it early enough so our dentists can intervene with treatment.

What is involved in treatment?

Treatment for periodontal disease may include:

• More frequent routine cleanings of the teeth in the dental office
• The application of antibiotics
• Prescription of oral antibiotics to control the infection
• A procedure called scaling and root planing

Treatment will vary from patient to patient, based on the stage their condition has reached. The earlier stage, known as gingivitis, can typically be reversed with a thorough cleaning and prescription of antibiotics if needed. However, the later stages, known as periodontitis, can be more difficult for patients to overcome. The condition cannot be cured, instead, it needs to be controlled with more treatments in the dental office and better home care. Our team provides an evaluation and then develops a treatment plan based on a patient’s needs. This may include cleanings and visits to the dentist every three months instead of every six to monitor the condition. We work closely with our patients to help them understand the importance of improved oral care to combat this condition.

Do I have periodontal disease?

Many patients have the early stages of periodontal disease and don’t even realize it. It is often characterized by problems such as:

• Persistent bad breath
• Bleeding when brushing and flossing the teeth
• Red, inflamed gum tissues
• Pockets developing between gums and teeth

As soon as these issues arise, it is essential that patients get the help they need with our team of professionals. Dr. Daniel Cobb is here to assist patients with their conditions and help get them back on track to a healthier smile. With early intervention, many symptoms can be addressed, and patients will be able to restore their oral health and wellness quickly under a doctor’s care. Without intervention, the problem can become worse and patients may experience negative changes to their smiles, such as tooth loss and bone loss.

Interested in quality, comprehensive dental care?

Contact the dentists of Alex Bell Dental today to discuss your dental health needs and achieve, maintain, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy smile! Contact Dr. Daniel Cobb by calling (937) 435 7311 for an appointment at the practice, conveniently located in Centerville, OH at 900 East Alex Bell Road. Our professionals welcome new patients into this holistic office to discuss general, cosmetic, and restorative care solutions for them and their families.